With its reinforced commitment to provide students with global exposure, Biliran Province State University formally entered into a partnership agreement with the Outbound Education and Internships (OBEI), an international internship and education agency. 

The ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), held at the Office of the President on November 13, was personally attended by University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., who signed on behalf of the university. Mr. John Jerick Postrero also attended representing OBEI.

The signing was also witnessed by the first batch of students participating in the internship program, School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME)’s On-the-Job Training (OJT) coordinators, and SME Dean Dr. Mafel Piol.

Through this MOA, OBEI will facilitate the overseas internship placements of tourism and hospitality management students, offering opportunities in various countries including the United States of America (USA), France, and Thailand.

As of writing, 11 students from SME have confirmed their participation in these international internships, with four set to intern in the USA, four in France, and three in Thailand.

During the signing, Dr. Cañezo reiterated BiPSU’s vision of providing students with international opportunities to broaden their horizons. 

“This partnership is a milestone for BiPSU as we bring our students closer to the global stage,” Dr. Cañezo said. “We want to ensure that our students gain the best experience and insights that will prepare them for successful careers.”

Furthermore, OBEI representative John Jerick Postrero highlighted that this internship program will significantly enhance job prospects for BiPSU interns. He emphasized that international experience on their resumes will make them more attractive to global employers.

Postrero also assured that OBEI is committed to prioritizing the interns' welfare and safety, particularly by arranging secure accommodations and ensuring reliable placements within their assigned companies. “We know that working abroad can be psychologically challenging, so we ensure that interns are placed in pairs or groups of two or three within each company,” he said.

Dr. Cañezo also emphasized that the administration will conduct an on-site visit before the students begin their internships to ensure their safety and welfare. Additionally, he aims to establish regular monitoring of students abroad, potentially with the assistance of BiPSU alumni based in those countries.

Meanwhile, in an interview, Dr. Mafel Piol expressed that sending students for international internships marks a significant step forward for SME, as it provides students with invaluable global exposure. “The experience they will gain through this OJT will not only enhance their technical skills but also cultivate adaptability, resilience, and cultural awareness, which are crucial in today’s market,” she said.

Dr. Piol further emphasized that this initiative is a pathway not only to strengthen students’ resumes but also to shape their future careers with an expanded worldview and richer professional experiences.

The SME dean also revealed that the last time the tourism program offered an international internship was eleven years ago. She highlighted the importance of reviving and expanding these opportunities for current students.

Prior to the MOA signing, SME, in collaboration with OBEI, held an orientation last August 15 at the university’s Hyflex Audio-Visual Center (HAVC) to introduce students to the various internship prospects abroad.

The university president expressed hope that this partnership will pave the way for more international opportunities not only for students but also for faculty members, enhancing BiPSU's global engagement and connections.

The partnership and initiative to provide international internships align with the university’s vision of becoming an internationally recognized institution that responds to the needs of the global community by producing highly skilled graduates and a competent workforce.

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[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal No. 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]