ISAT U External Affairs Achieves New Milestone with 15 International Partners

The External Affairs Office of Iloilo Science University has achieved a new milestone in the internationalization agenda of the University through 15 formalized international partnerships with various academic institutions from Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, and Thailand.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Approved Minutes of the Meeting (AMM) Signing Ceremony was done virtually and was led by ISAT U President Dr. Raul F. Muyong. Dr. Nemia H. Mabaquiao, Vice President for External Affairs served as witness during the online event supported by the rest of the Vice Presidents of the University, Campus Administrators, Deans, Directors and External Affairs personnel.

The MOU and AMM Signing Ceremony was done on three separate days which started on October 16, 2021 at 2:00 PM Philippine time with Pangkep State Polytechnic of Agriculture (PSPA) in Indonesia. On October 25, 2021, there were 13 international institutions that took part in the ceremony with  nine (9) Indonesian institutions: Bina Insani University (BiU), Institut Teknologi dan Bisnis Asia Malang (Institut Asia), Politeknik Elektronika Negeri Surabaya (PENS), Sekolah Tinggi Informatika dan Komputer Indonesia (STIKI), Universitas Muhammadiyah Pontianak (UM Pontianak), Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha (Undiksha), Universitas PGRI Madiun (UNIPMA), Universitas PGRI Semarang (UPGRIS), Universitas Tidar (UNTIDAR); one (1) from Laos: Dongkhamxang Agriculture Technical College (DATC); two from Malaysia: Politeknik Ibrahim Sultan and Politeknik Mersing Johor; and one from Thailand:  Chiang Rai Rajabhat University (CRRU). The online event was capped with the MOU signing of ISAT U and Institut Pertanian Bogor University (IPB) on October 26, 2021.

In his message of commitment, Dr. Raul F. Muyong – ISAT U President, promised international partner institutions to uphold the commitment toward international higher education mobility and internationalization of education among ASEAN partners. He wished good health, reinforced commitment, strengthened motivation and enthusiasm to students, faculty, staff and international affairs personnel. According to him, these people are the prime movers of the each school’s goal to internationalize education. Dr. Muyong also emphasized that partnerships do not only aim at sharing knowledge and expertise, and provide avenues for growth and development, it is also an opportunity for appreciation of values and uniqueness amidst cultural diversity in the academe.

The international partner institutions agreed to collaborate with ISAT U in collaborating with each other on various mobility programs like international credit transfer program, guest lecturer exchange, co-curricular and extra-curricular online activities, summer programs, short courses and the like.

 

-Jieza J. Napone, LPT, MA.Ed.

Tradeans continue winning tradition in Metrobank art and design competition

Tyrone Dave Ejar Espinosa and Crispo Dayaday Mantiquilla carry on with the University’s winning tradition in the prestigious Metrobank Art and Design Excellence 2021(MADE) competition after bagging a special citation in the sculpture and water media on paper categories.

On September 16, Espinosa and Ejar were formally recognized as awardees in the 37th MADE Virtual Recognition Program. They both received a special citation for their works, a Mula glass trophy designed by 2009 Metrobank Prize for Achievement in Sculpture (MPAS) awardee Noell El Farol and P100,000 cash prize. Their names will now be part of the MADE – Network of awardees.

In his interviews, Espinosa’s work ‘Nakakabinging Katahimikan’ is about depression and the challenge to wake up to reality. Mantiquilla’s piece’21:11’ on the other hand is a recognition of eminence and power.

“I begun thinking about the concept right after the explosion of Taal volcano. Then there was this pandemic, strong typhoons and other calamities. We should be aware. We need to be prepared. We need to help each other. And we need to recognize God’s power,” said Mantiquilla in a phone interview.

Espinosa is a 2015 Bachelor of Science in Architecture graduate while Mantiquilla is 2008 graduate of Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology Major in Drafting Technology. This year’s competition saw the highest number of entries in the last 10 years with 701 entries coming from different parts of the country.

“Foremost, to my alma-mater, I am so very grateful being a product of ISATU,”  shared Espinosa during a phone interview.

In 2017, Ar. Paul John Cabanalan of the College of Engineering and Architecture won grand prize in the Oil/ Acrylic category with his work “Genesis”. In 2018, Ar. Noel Magallanes Elicana and Mr. Alex Pampag Ordoyo bested other contestants in the Oil/ Acrylic and Water Media Media on Paper categories respectively when they were hailed as grand prize winners. In the same year, Mr. Rolan F. Llarena also brought home a special citation in Oil / Canvas category.

Apart from the prizes given by the Metrobank Foundation, these awardees have been featured many times in various local/national print and broadcast media. They were also given the opportunity to hold exhibits to showcase their works and projects.

“We have always been proud of the achievements of our students. It’s a validation of our work here in the University, “according to Dr. Raul F. Muyong.

 

 

ISAT U Miagao Campus ramps up flexible learning initiatives with distribution of free pocket WIFI

Committed to provide essential services and assistance to the students, ISAT U Miagao Campus has started the distribution of 3, 314 free pocket-wifi as part of efforts in the shift to online learning amid the coronavirus pandemic. The Administration said that it has allocated P2, 982, 600 for the said project.

Over the past years, ISAT U has been able to respond to the needs of its stakeholders especially the students with care, dedication, flexibility and delivered quality education under challenging conditions. The University has spent the past few months preparing to ensure that each student will receive quality education and will have a meaningful experience learning online.

“Let us use this pandemic as an opportunity to become creative and not a reason to quit,” Dr. Raul Muyong said in his virtual message during the Ceremonial Distribution of Pocket WIFI held last October 19, 2021 which was attended by the members of the Administration and Student Republic officers.  The University President also thanked all those behind him in realizing this project.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ramil Lumauag, Officer-in-Charge, Office of the Campus Administrator, ISAT U Miagao Campus thanked Dr. Muyong,  members of the Administration, faculty, staff and students for the usual support. “To our students, may you utilize these gadgets efficiently as you strive for excellence in attaining your goals,” he said.

Before receiving the pocket wifi, students were asked to sign an Affidavit of Undertaking, stating that they will take care of the gadget and that the same will be returned to the University after they graduated or leave the campus.

 

 

-Nińo Legaspi, MPA – ISATU Miagao

ISAT U and POLIPANGKEP, Indonesia Formalize Partnership

Another milestone on internationalization of education has been achieved by Iloilo Science and  Technology University through formalizing its partnership with PANGKEP State Polytechnic of Agriculture (POLIPANGKEP), Indonesia. The memorandum of understanding was signed by both institutions during the Commencement Exercises of POLIPANGKEP via Zoom video conferencing application and was broadcasted via Facebook Live on October 16, 2021 in the morning.

Dr. Raul F. Muyong, ISAT U President, and

Dr. IR. Darmawan, Director of PANGKEP

State Polytechnic of Agriculture, each delivered their message of commitment during the brief MOU Signing program. Dr. Muyong in his message emphasized that ISAT U’s partnership with POL

IPANGKEP “does not only aim at sharing knowledge and expertise, and provide avenues for growth and development, it is also an opportunity for appreciation of values and uniqueness amidst cultural diversity”.

The graduates of POLIPANGKEP, faculty and guests witnessed the online event with Ms. Gusni Sudhanti, POLIPANGKEP Coordinator of Collaboration and the representatives from the ISAT U External Affairs Office lead by the Vice President for External Affairs, Dr. Nemia H. Mabaquiao and Dr. Juniffer B. Badoles, National and International Affairs Director. The brief program ended with the closing message delivered by Dr. Nur Rahmawaty Arma, POLIPANGKEP’s Vice Director for Student Affairs and Collaboration who congratulated both institutions on the milestone.

 

 

by:  Jieza J. Napone, LPT, MA.Ed.

 

ISAT U conducts series of orientation and dialogues with stakeholders

The ISAT University administration conducted several dialogues and orientation with stakeholders through Zoom and Facebook live.

First among the series is a systemwide orientation for first year students held last September 21, 2021. The activity highlighted the services of the offices like the virtual learning environment (VLE),

registrar, library, medical dental and the office of student affairs and services in anticipation of the usual queries and needs of those who are new to the University.

On October 4, 2021, another round of student – administration dialogue was initiated through the office of VP for Academic Affairs and Office of Students Affairs and Services. This is also a systemwide dialogue aimed at soliciting feedback from students and provide the administration the opportunity to address them.

The 3rd round of dialogue was in between the administration and the parents or guardians held last October 6. It was spearheaded by the Parents Affairs and Relations office and was designed to get valuable inputs from the parents on issues affecting them and their students. Most concerns delved on the use of the VLE, projects and requirements of students and availability of scholarships, etc.

On October 8, it was the turn of the faculty members    in the system to discuss matters of concern like schedules in holding synchronous classes, provision of additional communication allowance, and the possible holding of limited face to face classes as mentioned earlier by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

Localized orientation programs were also conducted by various offices like the National Service and Training Program (NSTP), Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), Graduate Education Program, colleges and campuses.

 

A virtual onboarding activity for the newly – hired faculty members was held on Tuesday, October 12 via Zoom.

These dialogues are viewed as a feedback mechanism to effectively manage individual

and organizational issues and concerns. Some notable initiatives that came out from these dialogues include the construction of the access route (overpass), purchase of the University bus, provision of communication allowance for faculty members and the purchase of electronic gadgets for the students among others.

NNQAA holds first-ever virtual awarding ceremony

 

The National Network of Quality Assurance Agencies Inc. (NNQAA, Inc.) doubled on its preparation for the first ever virtual awarding ceremony on September 30, 2021 via Zoom and Facebook live.

Highlighting the activity is the presentation of NNQAA certification for the three institutionally accredited SUCs and accredited programs of various higher education institutions (HEI) in the country.

“An Institutional and program accreditation award manifest the dedication of the HEI for quality and excellence and its continuous desire to be at par with the rest of the world,” according to Dr. Raul F. Muyong, ISAT U president and the concurrent president of the NNQAA.

The NNQAA launched their website and Facebook page on the same event to cater to the growing demands of their clients through accessible and user-friendly social media interface. The virtual program also featured the soft opening of the NNQAA office that will serve as the seat of operation of the entire organization.

Dr. Angel Alcala, First CHED Chairman and Founding Chairman of NNQAA, Inc. Board of Trustees served as the guest speaker of the ceremony. Presently, the NNQAA leadership is chaired by Dr. Raymundo P. Arcega.

“Today’s event is not an accident. Today’s event for the first time for NNQAA is a realization of the vision. The 90 SUCs and 4 LUCs will receive for the first-time their awards via Zoom and COVID-19 pandemic did not stop us in recognizing SUCs and LUCs which have been very brave and boulder to face the challenges of the pandemic and today is a day of celebration, renewal of faith and gratitude.” Dr. Raymundo P. Arcega, the NNQAA chairman stated during his message.

The virtual spectacle was premiered live @isatuniversitypio Facebook page.

 

 

ISATU marks 116th founding anniversary with virtual performances

 

The celebration kicked off on September 8 with a thanksgiving mass officiated by Fr. Rex Fedelicio held at the Our Lady of Good Voyage Parish in Lapaz. It was then followed by an opening program featuring the rich history of the institution and its present trailblazing efforts. Day 1 ended with a Mathematics and Science Quiz Bowl in the afternoon.

Dr. Raul F. Muyong, the university president, gave emphasis that though the pandemic brought many changes and challenges in the educational landscape, the University will continue to thrive and remain relevant in the post-COVID scenario through the collective efforts of every member of the educational community in sustaining the culture of excellence.

“The whole ISATU community must wholeheartedly commit to a vision that stretches us to surpass ourselves and work together by imbibing and sustaining a culture of excellence in everything that we do,” said Dr. Muyong during his opening message.

The usual week-long celebration was reduced to three days but nonetheless showcased a number of virtual spectacles that generated thousands of Facebook and YouTube engagements as per report.  On September 9, day 2, the ISAT University Gender Center in partnership with the Alumni Affairs and Relations office presented a webinar on “Fostering Mental Health at Home” which featured veteran actress Sharon Buencamino as one of the resource persons.

On the same day, The ISAT U KWADRA TBI, the technology business incubator of the University also conducted virtual sessions with emphasis on start – ups, design thinking, pitching and incubation among others.

The last day of the event started with the digital design competition which displayed the creativity, skill and innovativeness of students in graphic and digital designs. It was then followed by the highly anticipated “Tradeans Got Voice” singing contest with participants coming from all across the system. The celebration culminated on September 10 with the University giving tribute to the retirees, loyalty and posthumous awardees.

All virtual activities were officially streamed live at the ISAT U – Public Information and Communication Office (PICO) official Facebook page and YouTube channel.

“This occasion remarks the success of our university in sustaining excellence in culture through nurturing skills and development throughout the years. We are very thankful that we have the benevolent support system coming from our students, faculty, staff and stakeholders. This celebration would not be possible without the hard work and commitment of every individual that dedicated so much for the success of this event,” Dr. Gabriel Salistre said during his closing message.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “ISAT U at 116th: Sustaining the Culture of Excellence in Higher Education in the New Normal.” Dr. Tracy Tacuban, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) spearheaded the event together with the different committees created for the purpose.

Happy Anniversary to the entire ISAT U family! Mabuhay!

Department of Education SHA project partners with ISAT University

September 7, 2021 – The Iloilo Science and Technology University together with the Extension Services Division (ESD) and the College of Education Graduate School signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of Education Schools Division of Iloilo under its School Heads Academy Program (SHA).

The School Heads Academy Program (SHA) is a one-year distance education scholarship program specifically for the school heads aspirants of the Department Education with the aim to establish a consensual and lawful collaboration between Iloilo Science and Technology University and the Department of Education-Division of Iloilo, ensure resource sharing between  Iloilo Science and Technology University and the Department of Education – Division of Iloilo to achieve the expected outcomes of the program, provide a one-year scholarship to DepEd school heads aspirants who are expected to earn 18 units of courses leading towards the degree Master of Arts in Education with concentration in Educational Management among others.

Present in the MOA signing were Dr. Raul F. Muyong, President of Iloilo Science and Technology University; Mr. Roel F. Bermejo, Schools Division Superintendent, Schools Division of Iloilo; Mr. Ferdinand S. Sy, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, Schools Division of Iloilo; Mr. Adonis A. Mosquera, Officer In-charge to the Office of the Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, Schools Division of Iloilo; Dr. Adrienne D. Veloso, ISAT U Director of the Extension Services Division; Dr. Ma. Teresa C. Carbon, ISAT U Director of Instruction; Dr. John Eric V. Juaneza, Dean of the ISAT U College of Education; Dr. Frisian Y. Causing, Program Coordinator of the ISAT U COE Graduate Education Program; Ms. Donabelle D. Niñonuevo, Education Program Specialist II; and Ms. Joneflor V. Bales, Education Program Specialist II.

“The Department of Education has chosen Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) as partner in this pursuit to academically train their school heads since the University has the capacity, resources, facilities, provision, pool of faculty members and academic program, to realize and achieve the main objectives of the SHA program” stated Mr. Adonis A. Mosquera, officer-in-charge to the Office of the Assistant Schools Division Superintendent.

“The partnership of ISAT U and DepEd – Division of Iloilo in the establishment of School Heads Academy (SHA) provides great opportunity for the University to assist DepEd Region VI and the Division of Iloilo in training aspiring qualified public-school teachers to become effective, efficient, and competent school leaders. Through this collaboration, we would be able to strengthen and uplift the capability of all school heads in the region and ultimately produce champion learners” said Dr. Muyong during his message.

 

 

-Jieza Napone, LPT/Babelyn Cabalar, MMCom

NIA Trains Non-Teaching Personnel in Guest Handling

The External Affairs Office through the National and International Affairs (NIA) and the Employees Association – Iloilo City Campus championed the webinar series for the non-teaching personnel of all ISAT U Campuses entitled, “ISAT U kag ang Bugal sang Iloilo: An Initiative to Internationalize Guest Handling”.This was a 4-part webinar held via Zoom on July 14, 21, 28 and August 4, 2021.Dr. Raul F. Muyong, ISAT U President, welcomed the resource speakers during the plenary session on July 14, 2021 which started promptly at 8:00 o’clock in the morning. Mrs.Sofia Celeste E. Sarino — Accredited Tour Guide of the Department of Tourism in Western Visayas, Ms. Angeline E. Basco — Accredited Tour Guide of the Department of Tourism in Western Visayas and CIT NIA Coordinator of ISAT U, and Ms. Mona Luisa C. de Guzman – Accredited Tour Guide of the Department of Tourism in Western Visayas and Director of the Industry Linkages and Development Office of ISAT U were the three esteemed resource speakers of the webinar series.The national and international visitors to ISAT U’s five campuses must be well received and afforded culturally relevant courtesies and considerations since the University values its many partnerships with higher education institutions, industry partners, and other stakeholders within the country and around the world.Creating and sustaining these national and international linkages means involving all employees of the University in trainings that could help improve their guest relations skills.The Guest Handling webinar series aimed to train school personnel to have a common process and language when assisting guests and stakeholders.This allows the University to brand ISAT U’s employees’ interaction of excellent service which adds value to its name.Topics discussed on “Guest Handling Basics; Places and People; Iloilo: The Food Haven of the Philippines” and the virtual tour on the fourth installment of the webinar aimed to increase the non-teaching personnel’s motivation and engagement, improve their knowledge and skills set, and boost their confidence and morale as well.The local and international stakeholders are also beneficiaries of the training.The knowledge and skills learned from the webinar could increase guest satisfaction, improve cultural relations, sustain and further expand partnerships.The webinar also aimed to help increase international recognition, improve the reputation, standing and uniqueness of ISAT U in the international higher education arena which will ultimately make known the “tatak ISAT U” in Southeast Asia and beyond. hrvatskafarmacija24– Jieza J. Napone, LPT

ISAT U Alumni Affairs and Relations Office Launches I-Connect

The second week of September 2021 marks the 116th founding anniversary celebration of ISAT U.

I-Connect is one of the events that transpired in the founding anniversary celebration of the University and was streamed through the official Public Information Office page. It featured alumni from various Colleges including the Laboratory School, Graduate School and the External Campuses of ISAT U in Barotac Nuevo, Dumangas, Leon, and Miagao. Each college and campus had its respective premiere date.

The I-Connect initiative provides linkage from the past and present Tradeans which advocates a sense of belongingness and community, especially for the first-year college students, giving them a glimpse of their present and future. The video messages from the alumni included insights into the education in ISAT U and how the University contributed to the person they are now. Also, some shared tips on how to survive undergraduate studies and how to be successful in their respective fields, others reminisced what was, and all had expressed gratitude to their beloved alma mater. The I-Connect initiative unequivocally serves as a homage to the Iloilo Science and Technology University.

The first I-Connect video premiered on September 7, 2021 highlighted the alumni of the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Engineering and Architecture particularly Kristian Rey Trinidad of BSIT class of 2005, Randy S. Tolentino of BSIT class of 2003, Rayjand T. Gellamucho of BSCS class of 2009, JC June N. Garanchon of BSEE class of 2008, Rea Rose S. Pedrajas BSA class of 2009, Rocky S. Alegrado of BSEE class of 2014, Rona R. Malquerido of BSEE class of 2012, George Vincent C. Cagape of BSEE class of2013, and Alecar S. Prado of BSE class of 2008.

You can still catch more premiers of the I-Connect on September 13-14, 2021 on the ISAT U Public Information Office Page.

 

– Dessa Quinto, LPT