Malita, Davao Occidental — The Southern Philippines Agribusiness and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) formally strengthened its academic-industry linkages through the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with various Host Training Establishments (HTEs) on October . The event, held at Founder’s Hall, marked the official commencement of the criminology interns’ deployment, ensuring that students gain hands-on exposure and practical training aligned with the standards of the profession. The agreement underscores the institution’s commitment to producing competent and socially responsible graduates by integrating classroom learning with real-world experiences.
The program opened with preliminaries that included the playing of the National Anthem and provincial hymns via audio-visual presentations, setting a solemn yet inspiring tone for the gathering. Dr. Marlyn B. Llameg, Vice President for Academic
Affairs, welcomed the participants with her opening remarks, followed by the introduction of key personnel from the partner establishments by Jahara R. Cimafranca, RSW, the IHS–SIPP Focal Person. SPAMAST President, Dr. Lynette A. Bontia, then delivered a keynote message emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the academe and training institutions in molding future criminologists. A lively intermission number performed by the criminology interns highlighted the talent and energy of the students who are about to embark on their professional journey.
The highlight of the program was the ceremonial MOA signing between SPAMAST officials and representatives of the HTEs, symbolizing a unified commitment to academic excellence and professional development. This milestone ensures that students will be mentored under qualified practitioners and institutions, enhancing both their technical skills and ethical foundations. The pre-deployment orientation that followed provided interns with guidelines and expectations, equipping them to maximize their training experiences.
This initiative also resonates with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By bridging academic instruction with practical training, SPAMAST not only prepares future criminologists for meaningful careers but also contributes to broader national and global development agendas.
