Want to see a national policy on the matter
Evardone
TACLOBAN CITY – Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone is calling on the national government to establish a comprehensive national policy on college internships with dedicated budget allocations.
According to the governor, this is a critical component in producing quality graduates.
Evardone made this appeal during the launch of Eastern Samar State University’s (ESSU) BALUS initiative on July 29, 2024, in Borongan City.
BALUS stands for Building Alliances and Leveraging Unwavering Support, a program initiated by ESSU aimed at strengthening partnerships with Student Internship Program Host Training Establishments (HTEs).
At present, a wide range of industries and partners like the provincial government of Eastern Samar participate ESSU’s internship program.
BALUS is an annual event organized by the internship office of ESSU to foster strong relationships with industry partners and ensure that students have relevant opportunities to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
In his speech, Evardone stressed that a national policy on college internships would significantly impact the country’s educational system.
He highlighted the importance of internships in human resource development, job matching, networking, and overall economic contribution.
“If there is a comprehensive program by the national government on internships, supported by budgetary allocation, I believe it will have a more significant impact,” Evardone stated.
“Sadly, the national government is not giving importance to this program.”
The governor’s interest in this issue arose from complaints by parents of ESSU students who were forced to sell properties, such as agricultural lands and carabaos, to fund their children’s internship requirements.
“Our house-help in Sulat town asked for financial help because her child needed to pay for the internship facility,” Evardone narrated.
“What about those who have nothing to sell? It’s not fair that these students are required to pay.”
He emphasized that students should not be required to pay internship facilities since they contribute to the workforce.
“Besides, they are supposed to impart knowledge, transfer technology, and build confidence among these students,” he added.
Gov. Evardone intends to discuss this matter with senators like its Senate president Francis Escudero to address the issue at the Senate.
He also expressed hope that this issued would gain traction with the help of Reps. Ma. Fe Abunda, the lone congressional representative of the province and Marcelino Libanan of the 4Ps party-list group is who from Eastern Samar.(JOEY A. GABIETA)
