Eight students from the Dalubhasaan ng Lungsod ng San Pablo (DLSP) were recently trained as future professionals in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sector through an internship program offered by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
The internship program was conducted through partnership between DOST-PCAARRD and DLSP. The program aimed at providing students with meaningful workplace learning opportunities that help develop competencies relevant to the AANR sector.
The batch consisted of five Bachelor of Arts in Communication students assigned to the Applied Communication Division (ACD) and three Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering students assigned to the Management Information Systems Division (MISD).
Throughout their 400-hour internship, the students participated in various projects and activities that enabled them to apply classroom knowledge in an actual work environment. Beyond technical learning, the program provided opportunities to strengthen teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and professional work ethics while gaining a deeper appreciation of the role of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in advancing the AANR field.
Upon completing their required 400 internship hours, the ACD student-interns conducted their exit presentation on May 11, 2026, facilitated by Mr. Joel Eneristo A. Joven, ACD Supervising Science Research Specialist. The activity was attended by staff from ACD, the Office of the Executive Director for Administration, Resource Management and Support Services (OED-ARMSS), and the Finance and Administrative Division (FAD)-Personnel Section, as well as DLSP’s practicum adviser, the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Dean, and the on-the-job training (OJT) Coordinator, who joined virtually via Zoom.
During the presentation, the student-interns from ACD shared that the internship helped strengthen their communication skills, build their confidence, and provide them with firsthand experience in delivering science-based information to various stakeholders. They also noted that their exposure to DOST-PCAARRD’s programs and initiatives deepened their understanding and appreciation of development communication in promoting research-based innovations and its role in advancing science-based public service and community engagement.
Meanwhile, the student-interns from the MISD held their exit presentation on May 25, 2026, under the guidance of Dr. Richard E. Amansec. The activity was attended by their mentors from MISD, as well as staff from the OED-ARMSS, and FAD-Personnel. Representatives from DLSP also attended the activity, including the College of Computing Sciences and Engineering (CCSE) Dean, the Assistant CCSE Dean, and the Officer-in-Charge and Program Chair of the BSIE.
In their presentation, the student-interns shared how the program expanded their knowledge and exposure to troubleshooting, systems management, and information technology applications. Through hands-on assignments and mentorship from MISD personnel, they enhanced their technical competencies and gained practical experience in managing information systems and providing technical support services. Apart from technical skills, the student-interns highlighted the professional values they acquired during their stay at the Council. They cited excellence, discipline, adaptability, continuous learning, and resilience among the most significant lessons they would carry as they transition from academic life to their professional careers. They further shared that their internship with DOST-PCAARRD served as a bridge to deeper learning and broader professional exposure, allowing them to strengthen both their knowledge and skills while gaining a clearer understanding of their chosen field and future career paths.
The successful completion of the internship program underscores the continuing partnership between DOST-PCAARRD and DLSP in nurturing future professionals who can contribute to national development through STI for inclusive and sustainable growth.
Through its OJT/Internship Program and collaborations with various academic institutions, DOST-PCAARRD remains committed to providing meaningful learning opportunities that help develop future professionals, innovators, and changemakers in the AANR sector.