To ensure quality assurance of academic programs offered in the University, Mindanao State University-General Santos submitted nine of its programs for the Level III: Phase 2 online accreditation survey visit of the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines, July 26-28, 2023.
The three-day survey visit was led by the AACCUP Accreditors and overall coordinators, Dr. Boyet L. Batang, Vice President for Academic Affairs of Isabela State University, and Dr. Jaime M. Forbes, Chairperson of the Student Affairs and Services Office of Bataan Peninsula State University’s Balanga Campus. The programs that were subjected to the accreditation survey visit were the following: from the College of Social Science and Humanities, BA in English Language Studies, BA in Political Science, BA in History, and BA in Sociology; from the College of Fisheries, BS in Marine Biology; and lastly, from the School of Graduate Studies, Master in Sustainable Development Studies, Master of Science in Teaching, Master in Business Management, and Master of Arts in Education.
During the opening program, Dr. Mishell D. Lawas, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs of MSU-Gensan, gave her informative welcome remarks and proudly expressed that MSU-General Santos has always strived hard for academic excellence, as evident in its accomplishments as a University over the past years. “Accreditation process is actually a significant step towards the realization of our vision of being a premier institution of innovative and ethical leaders for sustainable development,” Dr. Lawas remarked. Before ending her address, she gave a sincere appreciation to all MSU- Gensan local task force members who took the extra mile in the preparation of this year’s visit. “You all remain committed and dedicated in accomplishing your tasks. Truly, you deserve the warmest applause for a job well done,” she said.
According to Dr. Batang, the nine programs to be accredited must garner an overall rating of at least 4.0 and be able to identify two mandatory plus two other areas for the survey visit. Also, the programs must meet the requirements of the criteria for Level III: Phase 2, such as well-defined objectives, an adequate and relevant program of activities to achieve objectives, systematic and effective procedures in terms of teaching methods, curriculum development and testing, a reasonable budget, the provision of materials and other resources, and the participation of a significant number of faculty and staff, students, and community in major projects and activities.
“We, at the AACCUP, are ensuring everyone that we will evaluate fairly and objectively all the programs of Mindanao State University—General Santos City,” Dr. Batang exclaimed.
The program featured a virtual tour highlighting various facilities in MSU-GenSan. Additionally, a thoughtfully crafted promotional video was presented, capturing the essence and spirit of the university and emphasizing its commitment to excellence in education, vibrant campus life, and its role as a nurturing community for personal and academic growth.
The Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance, Ms. Nurleila G. Canacan, CPA, wrapped up the opening program and conveyed her appreciation to all those involved during the accreditation processes. She also extended her thanks to the QuAMSO for their dedicated efforts in maintaining the accreditation spirit alive since 2014. VCAF Canacan concluded her speech by remarking, “quality education through accreditation.”
In the succeeding days, the programs underwent a comprehensive evaluation which included virtual tours and interviews with administrators, faculty, students, alumni, research and extension partners, and other stakeholders. With the Quality Assurance and Management Office (QuAMSO), led by Prof. Ronald P. Sombero, at the helm of the accreditation preparations, the programs were fully equipped for the series of accreditation evaluations by the AACCUP Survey Team.
The accreditation survey visit culminated with an exit conference cum closing program on July 28, 2023. The accreditors delivered their findings of the programs evaluated. The conference was highlighted by the giving of the general impression of the AACCUP Survey Team. The University and its accreditation working teams manifested commitment to continuously improving compliance to standards of the areas evaluated and the performance of their programs in general. The online accreditation survey visit yielded generally positive results with a few points for improvement by the programs.
