Bridging Academia and Industry Through Internship Program

One of the long-standing programs of the Office of the Extension Division is the internship program for students of Marine Science, Fisheries, and other allied sciences. This initiative leverages the university's diverse facilities, laboratories, and research projects to provide a practical, immersive learning environment. It serves as a platform for the university to share the expertise it has developed over the years while empowering students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in their chosen fields.

To formalize this collaboration, MSU at Naawan has forged Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) with the participating institutions, ensuring a structured and  mutually beneficial partnership. As of June 14, 2024, the program has welcomed 170 interns from various institutions: Iligan City East National High School in Iligan City (14 STEM students), Northwestern Mindanao State College of Science and Technology in Tangub City, Misamis Occidental (15 BS Biology students), Maputi Senior High School in Naawan, Misamis Oriental (79 students), MSU-TCTO in Tawi-Tawi (6 BS Marine Biology students), MSU - Maguindanao (9 BS Fisheries students), Surigao del Norte State University – Malimono Campus (40 BS Marine Biology students), and MSU General Santos (7 BS Marine Biology students).

Interns were assigned to various units, including the Center for Aquaculture Research, Enterprise, and Services, Phycology and Chemistry Laboratories, Marine Invertebrates Laboratory, Sea Cucumber Research and Development Center, and other research projects. They gained invaluable hands-on experience in tilapia culture, nursery and grow-out operations, water sampling techniques for eDNA research, and other related competencies in a real-world work setting. Additionally, interns attended a series of lectures designed to broaden their understanding of the latest advancements in marine science and fisheries.

Through this internship program, the university continues to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional application, nurturing the next generation of skilled and competent professionals in marine science and fisheries.