Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Two fourth-year BS Food Technology students from Central Mindanao University-College of Human Ecology, Enrique Benitez and Riche Nario, have been awarded a two-month international exposure opportunity at the National Pingtung University of Science and Technology (NPUST) in Taiwan. The program, which spans from July 1 to September 1, 2024, is part of the Taiwan Education Experience Program (TEEP), funded by Taiwan’s Ministry of Education.
During their stay at NPUST, Benitez and Nario will engage in advanced food product development at NPUST’s Food Pilot Plant under the expert guidance of Dr. Jenshinn Lin from the Department of Food Science. Their research will focus on innovative processing methods for cereal and pseudocereal plant products, contributing valuable insights to the field of food science.
As recipients of this prestigious grant, both students will receive fully funded dormitory accommodations and a monthly stipend of NTD 12,000. The TEEP program is designed to provide participants with immersive, hands-on laboratory research experiences, complemented by academic seminars, cultural activities, and professional interactions with international peers and professors. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance their professional skills while fostering a deeper appreciation of Taiwan’s rich culture.
Benitez and Nario are among a select group of 12 international students chosen for this year’s TEEP cohort, which includes participants from countries such as India, Indonesia, and Thailand. This opportunity allows them to collaborate with fellow undergraduate students and researchers, utilize state-of-the-art facilities, and present their findings to the esteemed faculty of NPUST’s Department of Food Science.
Meanwhile, Ms. Abbie Glenn Estribillo, Chair of the Food Science Department, confirmed that Benitez and Nario are the only Filipinos granted the TEEP in NPUST this batch. The Food Science Department, with the help of Dr. Quennie Ann L. Curayag, facilitated the students’ application process.
“By participating in this program, Benitez and Nario are not only advancing their academic careers but are also gaining valuable insights that will prepare them for the competitive Asian job market,” Ms. Estribillo shared.
TEEP has long been recognized for its commitment to providing international students with unparalleled educational experiences across various disciplines, including Agriculture and Fisheries, Business and Management, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Culture and Humanities, Social Sciences, Medicine, and Public Health [Iyren Dalipe Neri with reports from Ms. Abbie Glenn Estribillo, Chairperson, Department of Food Science].
