Five students from Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) had the opportunity to participate in the IPB University Summer Course 2026 on Marine Litter Management, Policy, and Integrated Coastal Governance, held from May 18 to 24, 2026, at IPB University in Bogor, Indonesia.
The MSUN student delegates were Shine C. Lajos, Franzel Mae G. Mendoza, Janiene C. Oracion, Ria Rey L. Plaza, and Genard C. Ramonal. They were accompanied by Ms. Darlene M. Reble of the Office of Global Engagement and Partnership (OGEP), who served as the university’s official representative throughout the international program.
The seven-day summer course was attended by students and professionals from various countries and aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of marine litter management, environmental policy, and integrated coastal governance through lectures, conferences, field learning activities, and collaborative discussions.
The program commenced with opening ceremonies, plenary lectures, and interactive discussions led by internationally recognized experts. Participants also attended the 2nd International Conference INFLECTION, where they explored current research, innovative technologies, and policy approaches for addressing marine environmental challenges.
One of the highlights of the program was the field learning activity on Pramuka Island, where participants visited waste management facilities, conducted stakeholder interviews, and observed community-based marine litter management initiatives. They also received training on marine litter and microplastic identification, standardized monitoring methods, data analysis, and visualization to support evidence-based environmental management.
During the program, participants developed group action plans, presented project proposals, completed a final examination, and prepared personal action plans for marine conservation.
Participants also take oath to be part of the PNLC youth Forum, it is an international youth platform under the PEMSEA Network of Learning Centers that connect students, young Professionals, researchers, and youth advocates from different Countries to collaborate, exchange Knowledge, and promote sustainable coastal and ocean development.
The summer course emphasized that marine litter is a global environmental challenge requiring collaboration at both international and national levels, as well as among governments, academe, industries, and local communities. It highlighted the importance of integrated coastal management, citizen science, youth engagement, environmental education, and innovative waste management strategies in reducing plastic pollution and protecting marine ecosystems.
This international engagement offered students meaningful opportunities to take part in global discussions, experience cross-cultural learning, and engage in academic exchange. Through the support of the University and the Office of Global Engagement and Partnership, students are given opportunities to engage with global experts, collaborate with peers from other countries, and broaden their perspectives on marine conservation and coastal governance. These experiences help strengthen their competence, confidence, and readiness as future marine professionals who can contribute to addressing environmental challenges at both local and global levels.
For more information, watch this video: IPB News: Fokus Atasi Sampah Laut, Peserta Summer Course Belajar Langsung pada Pakarnya
