The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region 2 – Regional Quality Assessment Team (RQAT) and the Engineering Technical Panel/Committee conducted a joint hybrid inspection and evaluation of the University’s Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (BSABE) program on February 21, 2025, at the Diffun Campus. The evaluation is a critical step in the program’s renewal application for a Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC).
A distinguished panel of evaluators participated in the assessment, including representatives from CHED Region 02: Engr. Joven Jacinto, Engr. Melanie A. Baguio, and Dr. Rafael J. Padre. The Technical Committee for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering was represented by Mr. Brian Uy, Dr. Rosana Marie Amongo, and Dr. Juana Tapel.
Dr. Elizabeth T. Carig, Vice President for Academic Research and Extension, welcomed the participants. Recognizing the significance of the evaluation in ensuring that the program meets national standards, she stated, “This assessment visit is very important to us because it is a compliance measure for all of us. It is a time for us to reflect, improve, and strengthen our commitment to produce future-ready professionals in the field of agriculture and biosystems engineering.” She also commended the faculty and teaching staff for their dedication and participation in the RQAT activity, expressing gratitude to the evaluators for their time and effort.
Dr. Hermenegildo F. Samoy, Jr., University President, expressed his sincere gratitude to the evaluators, highlighting the importance of their efforts in shaping the future of innovation, excellence, and the student learning environment. He shared the university’s initiatives and best practices in a constantly evolving educational landscape, characterized by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA). He also reiterated that the University pledges its dedication to inclusive learning, technological advancement, and service to God and humanity, expressing anticipation for the evaluators’ feedback.
Before the program proceeded to the next part, Engr. Joven Jacinto provided an overview of the evaluation process, which included pre-conference activities, the evaluation proper, and a post-conference presentation of findings.
As part of the assessment, Mr. Israel Erana, Program Chairperson, presented a comprehensive overview of the BSABE program. His presentation highlighted key aspects of the program, particularly the Certificate of Occupancy and the ordinance approving the establishment of the program, which reflect the legal and structural foundation supporting its operation. He also detailed the Curriculum and Instructional Standards, emphasizing their alignment with national frameworks and industry demands to ensure students receive quality education tailored to real-world applications. Additionally, Mr. Erana showcased the university’s laboratory equipment, outlining both the required and available quantities to demonstrate the program’s capacity to support hands-on learning and technical training.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Divina Gracia Sabio, Campus Administrator of Diffun, expressed confidence in the program’s future, stating, “This visit marks a significant step towards strengthening our academic programs, facilities, and overall institutional commitment to excellence.” She extended her gratitude to the evaluators and expressed optimism that the assessment will guide future developments.
As the BSABE Program awaits the official result of the evaluation from CHED and the technical panel, it looks forward to further enhancing its program and reinforcing its role in advancing agricultural and biosystems engineering education.
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