Sixteen programs of the three Colleges of Graduate Studies were evaluated by the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Joint Regional Quality Assessment Team (RQAT) and the Office of Programs and Standards Development (OPSD) Technical Panel. The assessment was held at the South La Union Campus, Agoo, La Union, on March 12 to 14, 2024.
The Technical Panel of evaluators Dr. Larry A. Gabao, a Retired College Professor at Philippine Normal University, and Dr. Allen U. Bautista, Campus Professor VI of the University of Rizal System; and RQA Team comprising Dr. Rosabel Acosta, Chair of the Secondary Education Department of Mariano Marcos State University College of Teacher Education, and Dr. Cristeta Dulos, Professor VI of Pangasinan State University met with the various Program Chairs and Deans, and University and Campus Officials were introduced at the Opening Program held at the Eriguel Hall on March 12. The evaluators were accompanied by Ms. Ana Biglete of CHED OPSD and Dr. Al Gerald Barde of CHED ROI.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Joanne C. Rivera, Chancellor of the South La Union Campus, highlighted what makes the Colleges of Graduate Studies in DMMMSU special.
“Here at DMMMSU, we have the best minds for the biggest questions in science. And, since research is central to everything CGS does, shaping educational experience and contributing to regional and national innovations is what makes our –- programs special. Our faculty researchers and professors are our greatest resource— they investigate the most important questions facing society today,” she said.
On the other hand, Dr. Paulito C. Nisperos, Dean of CGS-MLUC, was tasked to state the purpose of the assessment, while Dr. Tjaart Jan B. Estrada, Dean of CGS-SLUC, presented background information about DMMMSU and the Colleges of Graduate Studies.
Initial interview sessions followed the Opening Program. On the second day, the evaluators continued with the assessment of documents and the conduct of interviews as well as ocular visits to assess the status of the 16 programs, which are the following:
South La Union Campus
1. Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education
2. Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics Education
3. Doctor in Philosophy in Educational Administration
4. Master of Arts in Mathematics Education
5. Master of Arts in Educational Management
6. Master of Arts in Physical Education
7. Master of Arts in Teaching Music
8. Master of Arts in Special Education
9. Master of Arts in Science Education
10. Master of Arts in Language Teaching
11. Master of Arts in Technology and Livelihood Education
Mid La Union Campus
1. Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education
2. Master of Arts in Science Education
North La Union Campus
1. Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration
2. Master of Arts in Educational Management
3. Master of Arts in Technology and Livelihood Education
During the closing program on the third day, VP for Academic and International Affairs Dr. Elsie M. Pacho, who was represented by Dr. Sonia Siago, Director for Library Services, expressed her gratitude to the members of the Technical Panel and the RQA Team as well as the Chancellors, the Deans, the Program Chairs and the members of the Task Force.
“This exit conference provides us with an opportunity to reflect on the strengths and areas for improvement and to chart a course towards enhancing the quality of education here at DMMMSU,” she continued.
Also, the Technical Panel and the RQA Team of evaluators presented their impressions and recommendations. They highlighted the strengths of the programs and they also recommended areas for compliance and improvement.
MLUC Chancellor Dr. Eduardo C. Corpuz and NLUC Chancellor Dr. Junifer Rey E. Tabafunda both pledged their commitment to supporting and working on areas for compliance and improvement along with the Deans of the three Colleges of Graduates Studies and the Program Chairs.
Meanwhile, in his Statement of Dedication, President Jaime I. Manuel, Jr. who was represented by the Director for Instruction, Prof. Laiza A. Niduaza, expressed his support of quality assurance endeavors.
“Our dedication to quality assurance is unwavering. We understand the importance of maintaining the highest standards of academic rigor, relevance, and integrity in all our programs and activities. Through continuous assessment, evaluation, and improvement, we ensure that our education graduate programs not only meet but exceed the expectations set forth by no less than the Commission on Higher Education and other accrediting bodies. Here at DMMMSU, we view quality assurance not as a mere regulatory requirement but as a fundamental aspect of our institutional ethos and commitment to excellence,” he said.
Weaving the messages of the evaluators and University officials together on a common theme, Dr. Vicky A. Agpasa emphasized optimism among the task force members.
“Regardless of the outcome, let us remember that quality assurance is not merely a one-time assessment but an ongoing commitment to excellence. Let us uphold the standards of quality set by CHED and strive to exceed them in all that we do,” she remarked leaving the academic community an encouragement to remain steadfastness in upholding the highest standards of excellence in education at the College of Graduate Studies. (By Ayu)
