As part of the Agricultural Plant Science elective, Dr. Wojciech Simon Waliszewski, Chemistry and Agricultural Plant Sciences teacher at Colegio Bolivar, led an academic visit to Industrias Alimenticias el Trébol S.A. the largest industrial producer of panela in Colombia, located near Tuluá. This experience allowed students to connect classroom knowledge with real-world applications in a high-impact regional production environment.
Throughout the day, students observed firsthand the complete transformation process of sugar cane—from its cultivation and field management to its transport, processing, and final conversion into panela. They asked questions, interacted with technicians, supervisors, field workers, and company directors, and gained a deeper understanding of the scale and complexity of agricultural and industrial operations.
The activity integrated knowledge from science (chemistry and biology), agriculture, economics, business, and engineering, demonstrating how Deeper Learning is strengthened when students analyze real-world systems, make interdisciplinary connections, and engage with authentic challenges in their local context. They also observed large-scale automation and the essential role of manual labor in an industry that is one of the region’s major employers.
Another highlight of the visit was the opportunity to learn about a work environment that places employees’ well-being at the center of its operations—an approach that fosters motivation and contributes to high levels of job satisfaction.
This field trip, which complements previous visits in the elective course to tea plantations, agricultural research stations, and local farms, has become a valuable opportunity for students to develop transferable skills, cultivate their academic curiosity, and explore potential areas of interest for the future.
Colegio Bolivar extends its sincere appreciation to Kiko Barrios and the entire team at Industrias Alimenticias El Trébol S.A. for their warm hospitality and for providing an unforgettable learning experience that enriches our students’ academic journey.
