Written by Beverly Laltoog (STELA, Faculty)
Since its formal rollout in 2022, the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Practicum Program at the University of Baguio’s School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (UB-STELA) has established a dynamic network of local and international partnerships. These include government agencies, legal offices, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academic institutions abroad—all working together to provide students with meaningful practical experiences. These experiences enrich students’ understanding of ethical leadership, political systems, governance, and community service, molding them into empowered professionals ready to contribute to the global community.
Anchored in a curriculum that emphasizes public administration, legal and paralegal work, civil society engagement, and cultural diplomacy, the practicum program is designed to develop socially aware, ethically grounded, and professionally competent graduates who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
Since its inception, the program has benefitted over 100 Political Science students, placing them in esteemed institutions such as the Senate of the Philippines, regional government offices, private industries, law firms, and international partner Khon Kaen University (KKU) in Thailand. These placements enable students to engage in policy development, legal services, administrative functions, and cross-cultural diplomacy, giving them firsthand exposure to professional environments..
Notable Milestones
Senate Internship Program
A standout achievement of the practicum program is its inclusion in the Senate Internship Program, which began in 2023. Selected through a highly competitive process, UB-STELA interns demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and exceptional ethical standards.
These students are deployed to key departments such as the Senate Economic Planning Office, Legislative Technical Affairs Bureau, and the Legislative Archives, where they support bill drafting, policy research, and legal analysis. Through this 500-hour internship, students gain invaluable exposure to the inner workings of government and conclude their experience with a reflective presentation that synthesizes lessons learned and professional insights.
International Exchange in Thailand
Another landmark initiative is the International Cultural Exchange Program in partnership with KKU’s College of Local Administration. Through the UB-STELA Exchange Program, students participate in intercultural events, academic collaborations, and university affairs programming.
Currently, four UB Political Science students are involved in this exchange. Two are assigned to KKU’s International Affairs Division (IAD), where they help organize international student events, cultural exhibitions, and digital content. The other two are placed at the International Demonstration School, contributing to educational programs and community engagement efforts.
These international placements offer students rich insights into international relations, institutional development, and intercultural collaboration, while also serving as a platform to represent UB and the Philippines as cultural ambassadors.
Current Activities and Partner Institutions
The practicum program currently supports a wide range of placements across diverse institutions:
- Senate Internship Program (2023–2025): Involves legislative bill drafting, policy research, and plenary observation.
- International Internship at Khon Kaen University: Includes participation in the KKUMUSTA Filipino-Thai Student Convergence, academic exchanges, and cultural diplomacy initiatives.
- Regional Internship Placements: In collaboration with over 22 partner institutions, including: Public Attorney’s Office, City Prosecutor’s Office, COMELEC, DENR, DILG, National Youth Commission, and Private law firms such as: Bengwayan, Mendoza & Wooden Law Office, Domogan Law Office, VJC Consultancy, and All UP Academic Employees Union – Baguio Chapter
- Sangguniang Panlungsod ng Baguio: Where students assist in drafting resolutions, encoding legal documents, coordinating community outreach, and attending legislative sessions.
All interns complete 500 hours of supervised training, culminating in comprehensive reports and presentations that integrate classroom learning with real-world application. This journey concludes with a signature capstone event themed “TOGATOG: Celebrating Success and Reaching New Heights.” The event serves as both a culminating activity and a symbolic celebration of the students’ academic and internship milestones, highlighting their growth and ascent toward future professional goals.
Featuring a meaningful program that includes student testimonials and inspirational messages from industry partners, faculty, and alumni, TOGATOG brings together students, practicum supervisors, faculty, alumni, and partner institutions in a shared spirit of unity, gratitude, and achievement.
Contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The BA Political Science Practicum Program directly contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
- SDG 4 – Quality Education: Enhances the Political Science curriculum through real-world exposure.
- SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: Equips students with practical skills that improve employability.
- SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Engages students in governance and legal systems that uphold democratic values.
- SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Fosters collaboration with diverse local and international institutions to promote shared learning and development.
Strengthening the Bridge: From Practicum to Public Impact
Beyond fulfilling academic requirements, the practicum program serves as a platform for students to clarify career paths, expand professional networks, and strengthen civic commitment. Partner institutions consistently praise STELA-BAPS interns for their preparedness, professionalism, and strong academic foundation, which reflect the core values of the university: Competence, Integrity, and Service.
Many alumni have since pursued successful careers in public service, law, advocacy, and academia. Several now serve in local and national government agencies, NGOs, and private organizations, demonstrating the program’s enduring impact on both personal and national development.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Opportunities
Looking to the future, the BA Political Science Practicum Program aims to:
- Expand international partnerships across Southeast Asia to enhance student mobility and global exposure;
- Launch community-based governance labs, allowing students to apply their knowledge in Local Government Units (LGUs) through participatory research and policy implementation;
- Establish a policy forum series co-hosted with alumni and field practitioners to share best practices and insights with future interns.
The continued success of the BA Political Science Practicum Program is a collective achievement—driven by student initiative, dedicated faculty mentorship, and the generous support of partner institutions. As the University of Baguio deepens its commitment to bridging academic theory with practical application, it extends an open invitation to more local and international organizations to join this expanding network of transformative education.
