
THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) recently concluded a unique 10-day Work Immersion program, providing 15 Senior High School students from Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao with invaluable hands-on experience within a military setting.
Held at Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan, Davao City, from March 20 to April 2, the program offered a distinctive perspective on the intersection of technology and naval operations.
The participating students, specializing in programming (nine) and animation (six) under the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) strand of the Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) Track, were given a firsthand look at the diverse technologies and procedures employed by the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM).
This immersive experience went beyond the typical classroom setting, offering a glimpse into the practical applications of their chosen fields within a critical government sector.
A highlight of the program was a meet-and-greet session with Lt Gen. Luis Rex D. Bergante, commander of EastMinCom.
This interaction provided the students with an opportunity to engage with a high-ranking military official and gain insights into the importance of technology in national defense and security.
The 10-day Work Immersion program is directly aligned with the K-12 Curriculum, emphasizing the development of practical skills and the acquisition of real-world experience.
By immersing these aspiring programmers and animators in the operational environment of NFEM, EastMinCom aimed to equip them with a broader understanding of information technology and its potential career pathways within IT and related industries.
This initiative underscores the commitment of both the military and educational institutions to provide students with relevant and future-ready skills.
This unique collaboration between EastMinCom and Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao demonstrates an innovative approach to work immersion, exposing students to non-traditional IT applications and fostering a deeper appreciation for the crucial role of technology in various sectors, including national defense.
Moreover, the experience is expected to provide the students with a significant advantage as they pursue their future academic and professional endeavors in the ever-evolving field of information technology.