ISSP 2025
The International Summer Short-term Program 2025 by Central Luzon State University (CLSU), in cooperation with the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Agriculture (SEARCA) and the University Consortium (UC), is an intensive training program. It is designed for international students interested in the sustainability areas of crop biotechnology, mushroom pharming, and precision and digital agriculture, contributing to various sustainable development goals. As a regular member of the University Consortium, CLSU continuously aims to promote mutually beneficial cooperation among member institutions. This is achieved by optimizing collective resources through strong linkages in collaborative research projects that address sustainable development goals, fostering student mobility opportunities through this short-term training program. This fifth edition of the program will be held fully face-to-face/in-person, complemented by online classrooms, and includes expert lectures and laboratory activities. Face-to-face activities are designed to encourage active participation among delegates and create equal opportunities for future collaborations. Beyond lectures and immersions, the program also features a cultural component to introduce participants to the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.
DURATION
OF THE PROGRAM:
NOVEMBER 16 – 30, 2025
Mode of Delivery: Full face-to-face / In-Person,
with complimentary online activities
Applicable Fees: FREE, except for roundtrip airfare
(endorsement from home university required)
Track Offerings
Crop Biotechnology
Explore the core techniques in plant biotechnology with a strong focus on DNA extraction, bacterial identification, and biosafety practices. This track provides hands-on experience in molecular biology methods and introduces participants to regulatory perspectives in crop biotechnology. Ideal for those interested in research and genetic innovation for sustainable agriculture.
Mushroom Pharming
Learn the fundamentals of mushroom cultivation as a sustainable and scalable agribusiness. Participants gain hands-on experience in spawn preparation, substrate formulation, and harvesting techniques suited for both rural and urban setups.
Precision and Digital Agriculture
Understand best practices in raising goats for meat and milk with emphasis on nutrition, breeding, and housing. The program highlights low-cost and efficient systems ideal for small-scale farmers aiming for commercial viability.
Sustainable Goat Production
Dive into the world of smart farming and digital innovation. This track introduces tools and techniques such as soil moisture sensors, drone mapping, and automated irrigation systems. Participants will apply real-time data collection and analysis to improve farm productivity and resource efficiency in modern agriculture.
Freshwater Aquaculture
Explore innovative practices in fish farming using freshwater systems. This module covers breeding, pond management, feeding, and water quality control to help improve yields and ensure ecological balance in aquaculture operations.
ISSP Highlights by Year
Sustainable and Efficient Agricultural Practices
Returning fully onsite, ISSP 2024 emphasized hands-on learning and peer exchange. The program centered on improving efficiency in farming operations—covering smart farming technologies, integrated pest management, and resource-conserving practices. Held at the CLSU campus, participants benefited from immersive field demonstrations and real-time collaboration with experts and local practitioners.
Mushroom Pharming, Freshwater Aquaculture, Goat Production
This edition introduced a hybrid setup, combining in-person activities with virtual participation. The focus areas reflected a growing interest in alternative and resilient livelihood sources. Participants explored mushroom pharming as a low-cost, high-return enterprise, learned innovative techniques in freshwater aquaculture, and gained practical insights into sustainable goat production—targeted especially at rural communities.
Sustainable Agriculture, ASF (African Swine Fever) Risk Management
In response to ongoing pandemic restrictions, ISSP 2022 was conducted fully online. The program emphasized sustainable agricultural practices and effective risk management strategies for African Swine Fever—a pressing issue affecting livestock sectors across Asia. Sessions were designed to equip participants with knowledge in biosecurity measures, disease control, and sustainable farming models suitable for smallholder contexts.
Program Benefits
Certificate of Completion
Scientific Lectures from Experts
Research Collaboration Opportunities
In-Person Immersion in Philippine Culture
Free Enrollment in Two E-Farm Academy Courses
About the ISSP
The International Summer Short-term Program (ISSP) connects international students through academic learning, research training, and cultural immersion. Hosted by Central Luzon State University (CLSU) in collaboration with the UC-SEARCA consortium, ISSP highlights the importance of sustainability, innovation, and international collaboration in agriculture, aquaculture, and environmental management.