CITE hosted its Annual Curriculum Review on August 2, 2024 at BIG Hotel in Mandaue City, themed “Aligning Education with Industry: Ensuring Relevance and Excellence in Technical Training.” The event brought together 57 industry leaders, experts, and HR personnel, along with 39 educators from CITE, to review and enhance the diploma programs.
In his opening address, Mr. Jose Soberano III, Chairman of the CITE Board, underscored the vital collaboration between academia and industry, highlighting the need for innovation, adaptability, and continuous improvement in curriculum development. He encouraged participants to engage in meaningful discussions that align educational programs with the evolving demands of the industry.
TESDA Regional Director Gamaliel Vicente Jr., in a message delivered by a representative, emphasized the importance of the curriculum review as a crucial step in enhancing the quality of education and training at CITE, recognized as a leading provider of technical training and a champion of the Dual Training System (DTS). He stressed that collaboration between academia and industry ensures that the curriculum remains relevant, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
TESDA Assistant Regional Director and Provincial Director Floro Ringca echoed these sentiments, noting the responsiveness of CITE and its industry partners to the challenges of the VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) world. He emphasized the need to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive and lead in a dynamic environment. Ringca further highlighted the curriculum review as a vital process for reflecting, improving, and innovating diploma programs to better meet industry needs. He reaffirmed TESDA’s commitment to supporting CITE in creating a framework that fosters continuous improvement and innovation, ultimately contributing to the nation’s progress through a highly skilled workforce.
The curriculum review was divided into two main sessions: the plenary and the breakout sessions.
During the plenary session, HRM and Administrative Director Marlon Valencia delivered an informative presentation on critical aspects of the Dual Training System (DTS) and its comprehensive analysis of the costs and benefits. Additionally, NC (National Certification) Assessor John Paul Briones conducted an in-depth discussion on Training Needs Analysis and the formulation of DTS Training Plans. His presentation emphasized the importance of tailored training strategies to meet both the demands of the industry and the training needs of students.
During the breakout sessions, CITE’s Technology Heads presented detailed overviews of the existing curricula for the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Diploma in Electrical Engineering Technology, Diploma in Electronics Engineering Technology, Diploma in Computer Engineering Technology, and the newly proposed Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology.
Participants from various sectors, including business, engineering, and technology, provided valuable insights and feedback on the proposed curriculum changes. A key highlight of the review was the focus on integrating emerging technologies and practical skills into the curriculum to better prepare students for the evolving demands of the workplace.
The discussions also emphasized the need for curricular adjustments that address both technical competencies and essential soft skills, ensuring that graduates are well-rounded and ready for their professional careers.
The event fostered a collaborative atmosphere, facilitating a meaningful exchange of ideas that will help keep CITE’s curriculum both relevant and comprehensive.
Attendees from industry partners included Kenneth T. Loreto and Antonio A. Badayos (Anjo World), Jazel Faith D. Cañete and Eurel D. Regulacion (Austal Philippines PTY LTD), Keziah Reve B. Rodriguez and Ma. Giselle G. Mabunga (Alliance Software), Enricmerto L. Lamoste (Autoliv Cebu Safety Manufacturing), Liezel A. Ijan (Cebu Belmont), Meriam C. Avila and Engr. Gemar P. Aringay (Minebea Mitsumi), Lawrence P. Bacelonia (Draka Philippines), Gladys Gay Buslon and Cheryl M. Lao (GGC Technical Information Services, Inc.), Rodel L. Enad (Ina Micro Opto Corporation), Ruel Dotarot and Ramon Francisco Jr. (Moredone Ventures, Inc.), Vicente L. Divinagracia III and Biancy V. De Castro (NKC Conveyors Phils. Corp.), Regen T. Oplado and Teddy M. Taray (Primary Properties Corp.), Ian L. Dunken (Pustanan Printers-Cebu), Loretes L. Gonzales and Daphnie S. Canonigo (Ramjet Consumer Goods Trading), Manuel P. Tan, Lestle A. Opus, and Sofronilo A. Datuin (Republic Corrugated Cartons, Inc.), Hannah Michelle M. Cabalino and Leland D. Batoto (RMT Electrical Works), Nheymar Arnoza and Jorge Tolomea (Suarez & Sons, Inc. and Symbol Arts Philippines), Mark Anthony E. Delute (Suprea Philippines Development Corporation), Sherwin C. Navasca (AM Swiss Microtec, Inc.), Jerry J. Frias and Geboy P. Jison (Teradyne Philippines Ltd.), Christine Jannel V. Duazo and Jose Melier T. Singson (Toyoflex Cebu Corporation), Jolas Dranreb G. Diansuy, Geron V. Diones, and Marvin M. Dupit (Treasure Island Corp. – IPAK), Jefferson Phil Tan and Jeffrey Tan (Wellmade Motors and Development Corporation), Drahcir L. Cristobal (PC Bee Computer and Laptop Repair), Junie Soncados (ARIE Cebu Cosmetic Corporation), Zayrel A. Sabinay and Luis B. Intong (Tsuneishi Technical Services Philippines), Orland S. Bordalba and Antedio Z. Estrelloso (United Rebuilders, Inc.), Marvin S. Lahaylahay (Matluster Corporation), Mercy M. Doroon and Marben M. Rangas (ASO Philippines), Richmond A. Regala and Girlie D. Gerardo (Regan Steel), Evelyn T. Inot and Jade Ann-Marie G. Buenavente (IPS), Quennie Andeza and Mike Klinton Abatol (Sun Asterisk), and Engr. Edgar Albana (Quest Hotel).
The curriculum review also saw participation from TESDA specialists Cheyenne Soon, Priscilla Gayas, and Anabelle Gripo, alongside CITE trustees Engr. Oscar Rodriguez, Dr. Efren Valiente, Archt. Ric Ampiloquio, and the CITE management staff. The event was marked by productive discussions that are expected to lead to significant enhancements in CITE’s technical training programs, aligning them more closely with the needs of the industry and the demands of the workforce.
Photo courtesy of Jhufil Canedo