30 October 2026
De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde signed Memoranda of Understanding with Gourmet Farms, Inc. and Barista & Coffee Academy of Asia (BCAA) Inc. on October 27, 2026 at the Angelo King International Center (AKIC) Campus, opening new opportunities for students to engage with industry professionals and gain hands-on learning experiences.
The partnerships aim to connect classroom learning with current industry practice through a range of initiatives that benefit students, faculty, associates, and partner organisations. These include internship opportunities, micro-credential programmes, faculty immersion activities, curriculum development projects, collaborative research, and community initiatives.
Students will have opportunities to work on industry-led projects, participate in workshops and seminars, and learn directly from practitioners through mentorship and guest speaking engagements. They will also gain exposure to real-world challenges that can help them develop practical skills and a deeper understanding of professional environments.
The agreements create opportunities for faculty and associates to take part in immersion and exposure visits with both organisations. These experiences can support curriculum enhancement and help educators stay connected with developments in their respective industries.
Industry experts from Gourmet Farms and BCAA will also contribute to classroom discussions, learning activities, conferences, and training sessions. Their involvement gives students access to professional insights and experiences that complement academic learning.
Gourmet Farms views the collaboration as an opportunity to combine industry experience with the creativity, talent, and academic expertise found in Benilde. The company sees value in working closely with students and educators to create learning opportunities that can support both industry and academic goals.
BCAA shares a similar vision of bringing industry-based training closer to academic education. Through the partnership, students can gain practical exposure while pursuing their studies, allowing them to connect theory with professional practice.
For the School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management, the agreements create more avenues for students to prepare for careers in hospitality, food service, and related industries. The partnerships also open possibilities for long-term collaboration in areas that support student development and professional growth.
Center for External Linkages Director Oscar Sherlo S. Reyes shared that the new partnerships help connect education and industry in meaningful ways. By working closely with industry partners, Benilde can provide students with relevant learning experiences, exposure to current industry practices, and opportunities to develop future-ready competencies.
The collaborations also support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 on Quality Education and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals. Through these efforts, Benilde, Gourmet Farms, and BCAA seek to create learning experiences that benefit students, industry partners, and the wider community.
For more information on Benilde’s undergraduate programs, contact us at (63) 2 8230 5100 local 1801 or admissions@benilde.edu.ph. You may also visit our website at www.benilde.edu.ph.
