Archives for March 2024

The Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU) is currently hosting the Regional Association of State Universities and Colleges 6 (RASUC VI) ‘Culture and The Arts’ Conference and Festival 2024. The four-day event, running from March 23 to 26, has brought together 11 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) from the region to showcase their artistic talents and celebrate the rich cultural diversity of the Western Visayas.

The festival, themed “Bidlisiw, Paghilom, Pagbangon, at Pagsulong” (Reflection, Healing, Rise, and Progress), aims to highlight the resilience and creativity of the region’s artistic communities in the face of challenges and adversities.

Among the participating SUCs is the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), which has assembled a formidable contingent of talented performers and artists eager to make their mark on the competition. ISAT U’s delegation is vying for top honors in various categories, including dance, music, theater, and visual arts, with the goal of emerging as the overall champion.

The festival has already witnessed a vibrant display of cultural performances, captivating audiences with traditional dances, musical renditions, and theatrical productions that showcase the region’s rich heritage and artistic expressions.

“We are thrilled to be part of this celebration of culture and the arts,” expressed by ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr.. “Our students and their coaches have worked tirelessly to prepare for this event, and we are confident in their ability to showcase the talent and creativity that ISAT U is known for.”

The RASUC VI ‘Culture and The Arts’ Conference and Festival 2024 not only serves as a platform for artistic expression but also fosters unity, understanding, and appreciation among the participating SUCs. By bringing together diverse cultural influences, the festival aims to promote dialogue, collaboration, and the preservation of the region’s unique cultural identity.

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) was awarded with its 2nd Platinum Award during the National ITSO Presidents’ Summit held at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Manila on March 18, 2024.

The event, attended by 87 Innovation and Technology Support Office (ITSOs) from across the Philippines, serves as a platform to celebrate and honor institutions that have excelled in fostering innovation and driving technological progress.

Representing ISAT U at the summit were President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr. and Vice President for Research and Extension, Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut. The esteemed leaders had the opportunity to present and share the university’s innovation insights, showcasing the institution’s commitment to excellence and its role in shaping the future of science and technology.

This prestigious Platinum Award marks the second time ISAT U has received this recognition, a testament to its consistent dedication to pushing boundaries and embracing cutting-edge solutions.

“We are incredibly honored and humbled to receive the Platinum Award for the second time,” expressed President Salistre Jr. “This recognition not only validates our efforts but also serves as a catalyst for us to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation and contributing to the nation’s technological advancement.”

ISAT U’s unwavering pursuit of excellence has been reflected in its groundbreaking research initiatives, industry collaborations, and the development of innovative technologies that address real-world challenges. The university’s commitment to nurturing a culture of innovation has positioned it as a leader in the field of science and technology.

Dr. Ambut, who presented ISAT U’s innovation insights during the summit, emphasized the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in driving technological progress. “Innovation thrives in an environment where ideas are freely exchanged and diverse perspectives are embraced,” he stated. “We are grateful for the opportunity to share our insights and learn from the experiences of other ITSOs, as we collectively strive to shape a better future through innovation.”

The Platinum Award not only recognizes ISAT U’s past achievements but also serves as a testament to its ongoing dedication to excellence. As the university continues to push boundaries and explore new frontiers of knowledge, it remains committed to fostering an environment that nurtures innovation, empowers its students and researchers, and contributes to the betterment of society.

ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr. led a delegation on a visit to Kasetsart University’s Department of Textile Science, Faculty of Agro-Industry in Thailand from March 12 – 16, 2024.

The primary objective of this visit was to explore potential collaborations and knowledge-sharing opportunities to enhance ISAT U’s upcoming Textile Technology Academic Program. This initiative is part of a broader project funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in the Philippines, which aims to strengthen the textile industry and promote sustainable practices in the region.

During the visit, President Salistre Jr. and the ISAT U delegation had the opportunity to engage with leading experts and researchers from Kasetsart University’s Textile Science Department. They discussed potential areas of cooperation, including faculty and student exchanges, joint research projects, and curriculum development.

“This partnership with Kasetsart University represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing world-class education and fostering innovation in the textile industry,” stated President Salistre Jr. “By leveraging the expertise and resources of a renowned institution like Kasetsart, we can ensure that our Textile Technology Program is aligned with global standards and equips our students with the skills and knowledge to drive sustainable practices in the industry.”

The DOST project, which facilitated this visit, also included participants from DOST Provincial Field Officers, partner State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) such as Capiz State University and Aklan State University, as well as community partners like weavers from Miag-ao, Iloilo, and suppliers of raw materials for the Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC) from Passi City and Lemery, Iloilo.

Through this collaborative effort, ISAT U aims to establish a robust Textile Technology Academic Program that not only meets international standards but also addresses the specific needs and challenges of the local textile industry, promoting sustainable practices and fostering economic growth in the region.

In a move to gain insights and learn from best practices, Capiz State University conducted a benchmarking activity at ISAT University’s Public Information and Communications Office (PICO) and University Library on March 8, 2024. The activity aimed to observe and understand the innovations, initiatives, and operations of these two key offices.

The benchmarking program took place at the ISAT University Boardroom, where the guests were personally welcomed by ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre. Dr. Heinz B. Gumaquil, PICO Director, and Rovilyn Debalucos Somcio, University Librarian, were present to provide a comprehensive overview of their respective best practices and share their experiences.

During the first part of the program, Dr. Gumaquil and Ms. Somcio delivered presentations highlighting the innovative strategies, initiatives, and operations that have contributed to the success of their offices. They shared insights into their approaches, challenges faced, and the solutions implemented to overcome them.

Following the presentations, the second part of the benchmarking activity involved a tour of the PICO and University Library facilities. This provided the guests with a firsthand experience of the physical environments and an opportunity to observe the practical implementation of the best practices discussed earlier.

The benchmarking activity allowed Capiz State University representatives to gain valuable knowledge and inspiration from ISAT University’s successful models. By observing and learning from these exemplary operations, Capiz State University aims to implement similar strategies and initiatives to enhance their own services and operations.

Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, ISAT U President, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to share their institution’s best practices and commended Capiz State University’s commitment to continuous improvement. “We are honored to host this benchmarking activity and contribute to the growth and development of our fellow educational institutions,” he stated.

Christian George Francisco Acevedo, PIO Director and Head Librarian led the delegation of information officers and librarians from the said CAPSU.

The benchmarking activity fostered a spirit of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among the participating universities, ultimately benefiting the broader academic community and contributing to the advancement of higher education in the region.