After the ceremonial signing of the memorandum of agreement for academic and professional cooperation on June 26, 2023, representatives of On-Demand Innovation (ODI) Technologies, a US-based information technology company, visited Sorsogon State University- Bulan Campus to meet the campus employees, and the students who were recommended by the university for the internship program on June 27, 2023.
The delegates were headed by Mr. Michael J. Espina, chief executive officer of ODI Technologies Inc. He was accompanied by Ms. Marjorie Garcia, ODI’s corporate secretary, and Mr. Jay Rivera, one of ODI’s leading software developers. In his discussions with Prof. Ma. Elena C. Demdam, SorSU-Bulan Campus Director, and Engr. Rey C. Rodrigueza, Dean of the College of Information & Communications Technology (CICT), Mr. Espina introduced the possibilities of assisting the campus in improving its internet infrastructure which is vital in the implementation of technology innovations that are the among the primary goals of the partnership. He also recognized the potential of the campus for further developments, and discussed how technological innovations to be initiated by SorSU-Bulan Campus and ODI can help promote and become a model of economic boost in areas beyond Metro Manila, such as Sorsogon.
The ODI delegates also met the four incoming senior students from Bachelor of Science in Computer Science; namely, Jarrian Vince Gojar, Reymel Gepulle, Prince Jules Correa, and Kurt Gazo. They were recommended by the college to undergo student internship program with the company during the summer term as part of the initial project under the partnership. The company’s team conducted interviews with the students, assessing their capabilities, passions, and potential to contribute to the organization’s projects and initiatives. Aside from their technical skills, the company also assessed the students’ communications skills which are significant in the professional world, considering this generation’s interactive and intercultural nature. With the skills, enthusiasm and commitment of the students to learn and grow, ODI highlighted their exceptional potentials to become globally competitive professionals, and praised the university’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals.
With this visit, a new chapter in academic cooperation and professional development has begun. As the collaboration between Sorsogon State University – Bulan Campus and ODI Technologies Inc. progresses, the partnership will continue to create an academic environment that prepares students for the challenges of the global workforce. This stands as a testament to the university’s dedication to shaping the future of its students and fostering meaningful connections with industry leaders. As the students prepare to embark on their internships, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of their alma mater, poised to make a significant impact in the world of technology and innovation. (SorSU-Bulan Campus)