August 8, 2024 – Mabalacat City College
In a landmark meeting held on August 8, 2024, at Mabalacat City College, the Institute of Arts and Sciences (IAS) and Mekeni Food Corporation discussed potential collaborations aimed at enhancing the academic development and professional skills of BS-Biology students. The meeting was graced by College President Ms. Michelle Aguilar-Ong and Mekeni Food Corporation's AVP for HR and Exports, Ms. Marilou Uy.
The focus of the discussion was on the integration of an internship program for BS-Biology students, which would provide them with hands-on experience in a leading food manufacturing company. This collaboration aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry needs, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the professional world upon graduation.
The enhancement of the course content was also a focal point, with both parties emphasizing the importance of aligning the curriculum with the competencies required by Mekeni Food Corporation – Industry-based curriculum. By doing so, the Institute of Arts and Sciences hopes to produce graduates who possess the skills and knowledge that are highly sought after in the food industry.
In addition to the internship program and curriculum enhancement, the discussion also explored the possibility of integrating a Certificate Diploma program that focuses on employable and essential skills. This program would be tailored to meet the needs of both students and the industry, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the tools necessary to succeed in their careers.
The meeting also touched upon the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the two institutions, which would formalize the partnership and outline the specific areas of collaboration. The MOU/MOA signing is expected to take place in the near future, marking the official start of this strategic partnership.
Lastly, the IAS team expressed their interest in conducting a site visit to Mekeni Food Corporation to gain a deeper understanding of the company's operations and identify additional opportunities for collaboration. This visit is anticipated to further strengthen the relationship between the two institutions and pave the way for more innovative and impactful initiatives.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both Ms. Aguilar-Ong and Ms. Uy expressing their enthusiasm for the potential partnership and their commitment to working together to benefit the students of Mabalacat City College.
This collaboration is expected to set a new standard for industry-academia partnerships and provide a model for other educational institutions and companies to follow. The Institute of Arts and Sciences and Mekeni Food Corporation are poised to create a lasting impact on the lives of students and the community as a whole.
