Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) has unveiled plans to strengthen its internship program for students enrolled in Tourism and Hotel Management courses, following the confirmation of partnerships with top-tier hotels in the country.

Anna Marie Dispo Fernando, head of the OJT Internship Assistance Office under the College of Business Management, shared a preview of the world-class facilities that future ZSCMST interns will soon experience.

“We are very excited for our interns to be exposed to state-of-the-art facilities. This program will not only enhance their technical skills but will also open doors to broader opportunities, allowing them to work with top-level service providers and gain a competitive edge in their careers,” Fernando said.

Fernando was joined by Associate Dean of the Hotel Management Department, Randela Gizelle Lim, as official representatives of ZSCMST during the Memorandum of Agreement signing held on January 30 in Pasay City.

Among the institutions secured for internship placement is Astoria Plaza’s Culinary and Hospitality Institute, one of the country’s leading hospitality providers. It is part of a growing list of industry partners that ZSCMST is working with to establish long-term linkages for student internships this year. Other confirmed and prospective partners include Kingsford Hotel, Microtel by Wyndham Manila, as well as four additional hospitality establishments currently being finalized in Cebu and Davao Cities.

ZSCMST President Dr. Roy Valesco emphasized the institution’s commitment to providing students with exceptional opportunities. “ZSCMST is dedicated to connecting our students to better—and even the best—opportunities since the College was established. We are now shaping future concierges for hotels and cruise ships, as well as flight attendants in the making,” he said.

In addition to student internships, the college will also deploy faculty members for advanced academic and industry training to further enhance instructional quality and strengthen internship programs as ZSCMST continues to produce skilled graduates.