MU BS AGRICULTURE STUDENTS BUILD CONNECTIONS WITH GERMANY

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MU BS AGRICULTURE STUDENTS BUILD CONNECTIONS WITH ....

Christian Mark Estrada & Jhaine Elaica Agan

December 11, 2025 8:50 A.M.

Christian Mark Estrada & Jhaine Elaica Agan

December 11, 2025 8:50 A.M.

MU BS AGRICULTURE STUDENTS BUILD CONNECTIONS WITH GERMANY

Two MU delegates participated in a two-day activity organized by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Manila, in collaboration with the University of the Philippines, Diliman. During the event, they took part in the Scientific Symposium, networking sessions, field trips, and benchmarking activities.

Day 1: Participation in the Scientific Symposium of Filipino Scholars and Researchers in Germany and Networking Reception

On Day 1, November 27, 2025, Christian Mark Dominguez Estrada and Jhaine Elaica Simborio Agan, Bachelor of Science in Agriculture students, together with participants from various higher education institutions across the Philippines, took part in the Scientific Symposium of Filipino Scholars and Researchers in Germany at the Benito Sy Pow Auditorium, College of Architecture, UP Diliman, Quezon City. The event was organized by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Manila in partnership with the UP System–Office of International Linkages.

The delegation was accompanied by Mr. Gerald Aguilar, a DAAD-German Academic Exchange Service scholar and part-time instructor at the College of Agriculture and Forestry, Misamis University, who was also invited as one of the speakers for the symposium. His involvement provided the participants with deeper insights into international academic and research engagement.

Throughout the symposium, the students learned from research presentations on science diplomacy, sustainability, urban water systems, ethnoveterinary practices, and climate transformation, encompassing cross-disciplinary and globally relevant research. Their participation reflects MU’s commitment to internationalization and student mobility, paving the way for future academic and research opportunities abroad.

The event also offered valuable insights into academic pathways in Germany, featuring discussions on the experiences of Filipinos pursuing advanced studies, research, and work in the country. These discussions increased awareness of international mobility opportunities and inspired the students to explore future academic and research prospects in Germany.

In the evening, they took part in a vibrant networking reception, where they connected with organizations, scholars, and professionals with strong ties to Germany. This meaningful engagement allowed them to build international contacts and cultivate potential partnerships for future collaborations, enriching their global outlook and strengthening MU’s internationalization efforts.

Day 2: Field Excursion to a German-Supported Project and Research & Laboratory Benchmarking at UST

On the morning of Day 2, November 28, 2025, the final day of the event, they participated in a field excursion to a German-supported community project in Baseco, Port Area, Manila, organized by the Urban Poor Associates (UPA) and Kabalikat, both of which are non- governmental organizations focusing on urban poor community development. During the visit, they actively explored several community-led initiatives aimed at strengthening climate resilience, including a mangrove site, a community grocery, a housing project, and a material recovery facility. They also observed Kabalikat’s livelihood products, such as upcycled bags made from foil packs and dishwashing soap produced from used cooking oil, gaining firsthand experience of sustainable, community-driven solutions.

The half-day excursion concluded at Kabalikat’s Center for Cohesion and Resilience, where the students participated in a discussion and open forum. They learned about Kabalikat’s innovative grassroots initiatives and UPA’s emphasis on community organizing as a key factor in sustaining progress. The students also recognized that, while communities like Baseco can achieve remarkable development, strong collaboration with government agencies and partner institutions is essential for long-term resilience. This immersive experience enhanced their understanding of community engagement, sustainability, and social innovation.

Asst. Prof. Nikki Heherson A. Dagamac, Dr. rer. nat., of the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila, also recognized as one of Germany’s distinguished scholars, and who was present during the networking reception the previous day, invited MU delegates to conduct a benchmarking activity at UST on student thesis proposal presentations and laboratory facilities on the afternoon of November 28. This provided an opportunity for them to further expand student mobility engagements at the UST campus.

The MU delegates eagerly took full advantage of this opportunity, gaining valuable insights into how research can address real-world challenges, particularly in the agriculture sector, even at the undergraduate level. The benchmarking activity exposed them to research design, methodology, and execution, helping them better prepare for their own thesis projects. Through the thesis proposal presentations by UST students, the MU students, alongside Mr. Aguilar, observed exemplary research practices, innovative approaches, and effective presentation techniques. The experience inspired and encouraged them to pursue excellence in their own research endeavors while emphasizing the importance of learning from established academic standards and peer experiences.

Participating in the invitation extended by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Manila goes beyond simply taking students outside the Misamis University campus. It connects them to a broader world of learning, exposure, and experiences. These opportunities broaden their perspectives, enhance their skills, and better prepare them to face real-world challenges with confidence and competence.