Marikina’s internship program: Training tomorrow’s lawmakers
The City Council Secretariat of Marikina has established a robust internship program designed to cultivate the next generation of legislative drafters and legal researchers.
Its internship program is more than a mere academic exercise; it is an immersive experience that plunges students into the heart of local government. By working closely with the secretariat, interns gain firsthand exposure to the inner workings of the legislative process. They observe how ideas are transformed into local laws, how debates shape policy, and how diverse stakeholders contribute to the outcome.
The program’s curriculum is carefully structured to provide interns with a comprehensive understanding of local legislation. Through hands-on research projects, interns delve into the intricacies of existing laws, analyze their impact on the community, and identify areas for improvement. They learn to interpret legal language, identify key stakeholders, and craft effective arguments in support of proposed changes. This rigorous training equips interns with the essential skills needed to excel in the field of legislative drafting and legal research.
Beyond the technical aspects of legislation, the internship program also focuses on developing crucial communication and advocacy skills. Interns learn how to effectively communicate complex legal concepts and hone their writing skills by crafting persuasive briefs and reports that articulate their research findings and policy recommendations. Through these experiences, interns develop the ability to advocate for legislative changes in a clear, concise, and compelling manner.
The City Council Secretariat is committed to the success of its internship program, providing interns with ample support and guidance throughout their experience. Regular meetings with internship supervisors ensure that interns receive personalized feedback and mentorship, allowing them to refine their skills and maximize their learning. The program’s structured schedule, including an orientation to local legislation, dedicated research project time, and final presentation preparation, is designed to facilitate a comprehensive and rewarding learning experience.
The program’s stringent requirements include a minimum of 150 to 200 hours of internship work, research projects, and a final presentation.
Interns are evaluated not only on their completion of assigned tasks but also on their overall performance during the internship. Supervisor evaluations provide valuable insights into an intern’s work ethic, communication skills, and ability to work effectively as part of a team. The final presentation or report serves as a capstone project, allowing interns to showcase their research findings and demonstrate their understanding of the legislative process.
The City Council Secretariat recognizes that the internship program is an investment in the future of the city. By providing students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in legislative drafting and legal research, it is ensuring that the next generation of leaders is equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to shape the future of the city.
Reginald B. Tamayo,
Marikina City
