- May 26, 2023
Central Luzon State University through the Institute for Climate Change and Environmental Management (ICCEM) hosted 35 senior high school students from Doña Juana Chioco National High School (DJCNHS) and Sto. Domingo National Trade School (SDNTS) from March 20-31, 2023, to provide hands-on experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The work immersion students spent two weeks (80 hours) of hands-on activities at the different colleges and research and development centers of CLSU such as the College of Science (Department of Biology, Biotechnology and Analytical Laboratory, Flora and Fauna Analytical and Diagnostic Laboratory, Center for Tropical Mushroom Research and Development, Department of Mathematics and Physics, SuperComputing Facility, Department of Chemistry); CLSU Center for Specialized Research and Development (Nanotechnology Laboratory, Philippine Carabao Center at CLSU, Freshwater Aquaculture Center, Small Ruminant Center (SRC), Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology); College of Engineering; College of Fisheries; CLSU Infirmary; and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.
The students were exposed to various field and laboratory activities where they gained knowledge on DNA extraction and other molecular techniques, fecal collection and analysis of small ruminants, plankton microscopy, identifying 3D molecular models, fundamentals of machineries, mushroom culture and creating fruiting bags, water quality monitoring, pond harvesting, and freshwater multi-species production.
Students had the opportunity to interact with CLSU experts to inspire them to pursue careers at the university. The immersive learning experience offered by ICCEM introduced the students to the numerous degree programs offered by CLSU. Actual workplace experiences helped them to catch a glimpse of what these careers can offer.
During their culminating activity at the ICCEM amphitheater, the students shared that the program was an eye-opener about the importance of every degree program, specifically in fisheries and environmental science.
As the causes and consequences of climate change become more prevalent and intensifying, ICCEM used this partnership as an opportunity to conduct seminars that can capacitate students and future professionals in addressing environmental issues towards contributing to climate action efforts.
The program received positive feedback from the students, supervisors, and the institutions involved. The collaboration between DJCNHS and SDTNS with ICCEM-CLSU has provided an excellent opportunity for students to immerse in science, engineering, and technology. The importance of teamwork and collaboration among research centers was also highlighted during the program. Through this, CLSU and ICCEM hope that more schools will participate in the future.
