Mindanao State University – General Santos and Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF) Philippines signed a memorandum of understanding last March 8, 2022, paving the way for students from the College of Agriculture to undergo On-the-Job Training in the company. The signing was held at the Y-building Conference Room and was attended by delegates from both institutions.

The Memorandum outlines that the CPF will provide accommodations and allowances for the student trainees, with the program specifically targeting students from the Departments of Agronomy, Animal Science and Agribusiness Management. The delegates from CPF were led by Mr. Sompong Rojanaadisorn, Senior Vice-President of the CPF Agro-livestock feed business in Visayas and Mindanao, while MSU-General Santos delegates were led by Agriculture Dean, Dr. Edward R. Lapong and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Dr. Mishell D. Lawas.

Vice-Chancellor Lawas lauded the collaboration and CPF’s enthusiasm to provide students with the opportunity to be trained and be employed in their company. She also highlighted the need for more proactive engagements with stakeholders from the private sector to provide students with same opportunities.

This partnership is a great opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in their respective fields and specialization and is a testament to the commitment of both MSU-GenSan and CPF in promoting academic excellence and industry-academia linkages. The signing of the MOU is a step towards creating a dynamic and responsive workforce that is equipped with the skills needed to thrive in the ever-changing job market.