Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo—The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) opened its doors this week to a dynamic blend of local and international experts, students, and researchers, all united by a shared mission: advancing sustainable fisheries practices. The week-long training on fisheries management and agent-based modeling, supported by the French Embassy through the “Youth and Oceans” Fund, kicked off on November 25 at the ISUFST Main Campus-Tiwi Site, setting the stage for five days of collaboration, innovation, and learning.
In collaboration with the National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD) and Blue Nations, the weeklong training aims to equip participants with innovative tools to model and analyze complex fisheries systems. With lectures, hands-on group projects, and high-tech simulations, the event highlights the critical role of technology in addressing challenges in marine resource management.
“This initiative is a testament to our shared commitment to sustainability, particularly in the fisheries sector, which is crucial to the livelihoods of millions,” said ISUFST Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Johnny Dolor in his welcome remarks this morning, November 25.
ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. highlighted the significance of such initiatives in advancing the university’s mission. “This training exemplifies our goal to integrate technology and innovation in education to address real-world challenges. By engaging in global collaborations, we prepare our students to be leaders in sustainable development, particularly in fisheries management,” he said.
Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga also emphasized the importance of the training, stating, “This program not only strengthens the technical expertise of our students and faculty but also reaffirms ISUFST’s mission to be at the forefront of advancing sustainable practices in fisheries. It’s a privilege to work alongside global experts to nurture the next generation of environmental stewards.”
A highlight of the program is the presence of international experts such as Arnaud Grignard and Tri Nguyen-Huu, researchers from IRD’s UMMISCO Lab, and Julius Millano Bañgate, a researcher from the IGN French National Geographical Institute. Their expertise introduces participants to cutting-edge methodologies, including agent-based modeling—a powerful tool for simulating human and ecological interactions in fisheries systems.
While giving the training overview, Tri Nguyen-Huu, Head of Science for Complex Models at IRD, emphasized that the youth are vital to the future of sustainable fisheries. He highlighted that engaging with advanced modeling tools enables them to gain valuable insights into managing ocean resources more effectively.
Empowering the next generation
The training involves fisheries and information technology students, faculty members in fisheries and science education, and school’s top-performing fisheries board passers. All participants are immersed in activities aimed at enhancing their fisheries management skills. Participants engage in lectures, project inception workshops, and collaborative group activities, culminating in the presentation of their outputs on November 29.
This opportunity bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application for many attendees. One student observed that the training effectively bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. By working in a simulated environment, participants gain valuable insights into the consequences of their decisions, equipping them to navigate the complexities of managing marine ecosystems.
A commitment to excellence
The event also underscores ISUFST’s commitment to fostering global partnerships. As Dr. Jeanette Bayona, Director of International Affairs and Linkages, emphasizes, “Collaboration with institutions like IRD and the French Embassy helps elevate the university’s role in addressing global challenges in fisheries and sustainability.”
The training will close on November 29 with presentations of project outputs, certificates awarded, and closing messages from Dr. Rolindo Demo-Os, Dean of the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, and Dr. Renante Diamante, Dean of the College of Information and Communication Technology.
As the event progresses, the ISUFST community continues to embrace innovation, aiming to lead in sustainable development for fisheries management across Western Visayas and beyond. (Photos by Julius Ruger Hermano/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO/Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion/MIS-PAMMCO)
