The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) received five prestigious awards at the 3rd Regional Quality Awards 2024, held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at Urdaneta Hall, University of San Agustin, Gen. Luna St., Iloilo City. This marks the first time in three years that ISUFST has been recognized with such a number of institutional regional honors, underscoring its significant achievements in the field of education.
The awards received by ISUFST include the SUC with 100% Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) for Undergraduate Programs, Model Implementer: Scholarships for Instructors’ Knowledge Advancement Program (SIKAP), Certificate of Recognition for the institution’s support of CHEDRO VI, Award for Excellence in Indigenous Peoples (IP) Education, and Award for Excellence in Internationalization Initiatives. These accolades highlight the university’s commitment to excellence and its efforts to enhance educational standards and outreach.
The event began with welcome remarks from Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, Jr., Director of CHED Regional Office VI. Dr. Alvarez emphasized the collective effort required for success, “Today’s recognition is a testament to the power of collaboration and unity. Together, we can elevate higher education to unprecedented heights, ensuring quality and excellence for all.” His message set the tone for the ceremony, which celebrated the accomplishments of various institutions in Western Visayas.
Atty. Cinderella Filipina S. Benitez-Jaro, Executive Director IV of CHED, delivered an inspirational message highlighting the importance of resilience in higher education. “Our courage and resilience in the face of challenges define our journey. These awards celebrate our achievements and our unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and fostering growth,” she said. Her words resonated with the audience, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and dedication in the academic community.
The awarding properly recognized the achievements of 224 public and private educational institutions and 48 government agencies and private partners of CHED in Western Visayas. Among these, ISUFST is one of the few institutions that stood out for its significant contributions and exemplary performance.
Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., President of ISUFST, led the team that received the awards on behalf of the university. Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Siason said, “Receiving these is a great honor and a reflection of our entire team’s hard work and dedication. We are committed to sustaining this momentum, enhancing our programs, and contributing significantly to the educational landscape of Western Visayas. Indeed, change has come. Thank you to CHED for this recognition and to our partners and stakeholders for their unwavering support.”
The awards highlight ISUFST’s commitment to maintaining high standards in its undergraduate programs, its exemplary implementation of the SIKAP initiative, and its consistent support and collaboration with CHED Regional Office VI. Additionally, the university was recognized for its efforts in promoting and advancing education for indigenous communities and its successful internationalization initiatives.
Last year, ISUFST was also acknowledged by the SUC with a 100% Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) for Undergraduate Programs and as a Model Implementer of the Scholarships for Instructors’ Knowledge Advancement Program (SIKAP). The university also celebrated its conversion to university status, marking a significant milestone in its history.
The recognition of ISUFST’s efforts and accomplishments underscores its pivotal role in advancing education in Western Visayas. This recognition reflects its dedication to quality, innovation, and community engagement, setting a benchmark for other regional institutions.
This event marks a significant milestone for ISUFST, affirming its position as a leader in the educational sector. With these accolades, ISUFST continues to demonstrate its commitment to excellence and its role in shaping the future of education in the Philippines. (Herman Lagon/PAMCO)