By Jerylvin Rabago, StratCom Correspondent

Dr. Karl R. Matthews, a Fulbright Specialist and Professor of Food Microbiology at @Rutgers University, conducts a three-week training and collaboration on food science and technology from September 23 to October 10 at MMSU.

MMSU OIC President Dr. Prima Fe Franco welcomed Dr. Matthews during an opening program held at FEM Hall, expressing her enthusiasm about the partnership. “We are honored to have Dr. Matthews with us. His expertise will not only enhance the academic programs in food science and technology at MMSU but also strengthen our community partnerships and industry linkages,” she said.

Joining Dr. Franco in welcoming Dr. Matthews were Dr. Virgilio Julius Manzano Jr., vice president for Planning and Strategic Foresight, Dr. Dionisio Bucao, Director for Research, Dr. Mee Jay Domingo, Director of Internationalization, Linkages, and Partnerships, Dr. Cesario Pacis, CIT Dean, and faculty members from CIT, CAFSD and CBEA.

Dr. Matthews expressed his excitement about working with MMSU stating, “This is fulfilling because it’s not just about the knowledge I can provide about the university’s various programs, but also what I can learn in return.”

As part of his visit, Dr. Matthews will lead a seminar and workshop from September 23 to 27, targeting key stakeholders such as faculty members, students, and community partners from the Food Processing and Service Management (FPSM) program of the College of Industrial Technology. During the workshop, Dr. Matthews will share insights on food product development, safety protocols, and practical strategies to enhance the FPSM program's academic and practical foundation.

In addition, Dr. Matthews will also guide participants in developing comprehensive research proposals, a critical step in securing funding and support for their projects. He will also conduct a curriculum enhancement workshop for the Industrial Technology and Food Technology programs, ensuring their alignment with international standards and fostering future collaborations with faculty and students.

Dr. Matthews’ visit includes several outreach activities with the Ilocos Norte local food manufacturing community, collaborative meetings with representatives from MMSU College of Agriculture, Food, and Sustainable Development, MMSU Innovation and Technology Unit, Center for Cellular and Molecular Research, Tuklas Lunas Center, and site visits to food industries in Ilocos Norte.