By: Summer Kennard
KOROR, Palau — The Palau National Scholarship Board hosted its 2025 Summer Internship Forum, spotlighting 34 Palauan college graduates who completed eight-week internships under its fellowship program.
The forum gave interns the opportunity to present their work, reflect on their experiences, and engage with local professionals and leaders. Some interns even received job offers during the event.
Support for the event came from Honorary Senator Andrew Tabelual, who donated refreshments and lunch, and Honorary Delegate Stephanie Ngirchoimei, who contributed beverages. The forum was filled with positive energy, as interns and attendees celebrated one another’s achievements.
The internship program is designed to help Palauan students transition into the workforce, encouraging them to complete their education and return home to contribute to their communities.
Elwais O. Golbuu, an electrical engineering major at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, said his internship at the Malakal Power Plant changed his career trajectory. Initially focused on data and math-related areas of his major, Golbuu said exposure to high-voltage systems inspired him to consider specializing in power systems. His supervisor’s flexibility allowed him to rotate through departments, providing valuable experience.
“This fellowship is a great opportunity,” Golbuu said. “It provides paid work experience, covers flights, and can open doors to future employment in Palau.”
Daenna Ramarui, a senior studying education at Harvest Baptist Bible College, interned at Koror Elementary School. Though school was out for the summer, Ramarui said observing the school environment and interacting with dedicated Palauan teachers reinforced her desire to become an educator.
“I felt really supported by Principal Mayleen Ngiriou and the team,” she said. “They encouraged me to pursue this path and shared a lot of helpful advice.”
Both Golbuu and Ramarui urged other college juniors, seniors, and graduates to apply for the fellowship, emphasizing the program’s value in building professional networks, exploring career paths, and increasing employability in Palau.
The forum highlighted how internships not only strengthen individual skills and confidence but also build a more capable and connected Palauan workforce.