As part of the existing Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Central Luzon State University (CLSU) and Kasetsart University (KU) in Thailand, 10 international students from KU were recognized for successfully completing their International Internship Program at the College of Fisheries/Freshwater Aquaculture Center (CF/FAC) last May 29, 2023. The main purpose of the signed MOA is to promote academic cooperation between the said universities.
The 45-days Internship Program, from April 5 to May 29, 2023, was held in various production and research facilities of CF/FAC and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – National Freshwater Technology Center (BFAR-NFTC). The interns were also provided with complementary lectures from fisheries experts.
The recognition ceremony began with welcome remarks by Dr. Lorenz J. Fajardo, the new CF Acting Dean, who expressed her appreciation for the dedication and hard work of the interns. She commended their active engagement not only in the field and laboratory activities but also for enriching cultural exchange. Likewise, Dr. Ravelina R. Velasco, the new Acting Vice-President for Academic Affairs, delivered an inspirational message and promised to visit them in Thailand in the near future.
The KU students presented their 45 days internship journey and campus life in CLSU. They also expressed their gratitude for the invaluable learning experiences they gained in this program. To signify the successful conclusion of their internship in CLSU, a certificate of completion was awarded to them. Additionally, certificate of appreciation was given to CF students and CF/FAC staff members for their assistance during the internship.
Dr. Karl Marx A. Quiazon, FAC Director, commended the students for their commitment to personal and professional growth, urging them to carry forward the valuable experiences gained during their internship.
Dr. Hazel Monica M. Peralta, the Department Head of Aquatic Resources, Ecology, and Management, also expressed her gratitude to the interns for choosing CLSU. "This is not goodbye, it is just see you later," she quipped as the event came to an end.
They departed with a renewed commitment to apply their newfound knowledge and skills in their future endeavors, fostering sustainable practices and contributing to the global fisheries community. The event concluded with a cultural exchange segment, where the international interns presented Thai music while CLSU Fisheries students performed a couple of songs for everyone. This lively showcase of culture has highlighted the strong bond forged between the interns and the CLSU community, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding and appreciation.
