The Organic Agriculture Research, Development, and Extension Center-Agricultural Systems Institute-College of Agriculture and Food Science (OARDEC-ASI-CAFS) at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) and Los Baños Senior High School (LBSHS) collaborated for the Work Immersion Program of 30 senior high school students.

The work immersion program, mandated by the Department of Education for senior high school students, aims to acquaint students with real-world work settings relevant to their chosen fields. This collaboration enabled students to acquire practical skills under the guidance of OARDEC’s technical experts, apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, and prepare for future careers, entrepreneurship, or higher education.

During the 80-hour work immersion period from April 1-15, 2024, the students were engaged in diverse activities at OARDEC. They explored different herbs and species at the Aromatic Garden and Medicinal Garden; prepared  Organic Soil Amendments; gained an experience in vegetable seedling production, and learned the importance of protective farming using net house and greenhouse; familiarized with the crop-animal system; practiced cultivation of shade-loving plants and other farming techniques at the Agroforestry module and even participated in farm layout planning at the Kids’ Garden.

In addition to hands-on learning, students also developed promotional materials such as posters and videos, showcasing their immersive experiences. This partnership between LBSHS and ASI-CAFS did not only provide the students with invaluable real-world exposure but also equipped them with essential skills for their future endeavors.

(CBManalo)