By Cherrylyn M. Macairan, MSc
BS Biology students showcase their internship accomplishments and professional growth during the On-the-Job Training Culminating Activity, highlighting the bridge between academic learning and real-world practice.
The Department of Life Sciences successfully conducted the On-the-Job Training (OJT) Culminating Activity for fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Biology students at the Educational Media Center of Central Philippine University (CPU) last April 6, 2026. The event served as a significant academic milestone, highlighting the students’ transition from theoretical learning to professional practice.
The OJT Culminating Activity encapsulates the integration of knowledge, skills, and values acquired throughout the BS Biology program. As students complete their internship experiences, this event provides a structured platform to assess competencies, showcase accomplishments, and reaffirm the relevance of biological sciences across diverse professional fields.
At its core, the activity functions as a key mechanism for evaluating the program’s learning outcomes. During their internships, students were immersed in various professional environments, including research laboratories, healthcare institutions, environmental agencies, and industrial settings. These hands-on experiences enabled them to apply foundational biological concepts, enhance technical expertise, and develop essential professional values such as responsibility, adaptability, and ethical practice.
A highlight of the culminating activity was the students’ presentation of their internship experiences. They shared their assigned tasks, outputs, and personal reflections, demonstrating how their training contributed to their growth as aspiring biologists. These presentations allowed faculty members and industry partners to systematically assess whether the students achieved the intended program outcomes, including critical thinking, scientific communication, problem-solving, and ethical responsibility.
The presence of industry partners further enriched the event, strengthening the link between academe and professional practice. Among the distinguished partners in attendance was the Western Visayas Medical Center. Ms. Eden Parpa, Training Specialist IV, provided valuable feedback and words of encouragement to the students, emphasizing the importance of competence, professionalism, and continuous learning in the workplace.
Collaborative engagement with partner institutions ensures that the BS Biology curriculum remains responsive to current industry trends, technological advancements, and workforce demands. Industry stakeholders offer critical insights into the skills and standards expected of graduates, while the university continues to produce well-trained and competent professionals. The culminating activity thus becomes a meaningful venue for recognizing these partnerships, fostering dialogue, and exploring opportunities for sustained collaboration, including research initiatives, training programs, and future employment pathways.
Ultimately, the OJT Culminating Activity stands as a testament to the students’ dedication, growth, and readiness to enter the professional world. It not only celebrates their achievements but also reinforces the shared commitment of the university and its partners in shaping competent, ethical, and industry-ready graduates in the field of biological sciences.