CSU HOSTS 20TH NATIONAL AND 5TH INTERNATIONAL PACUIT CONFERENCE, PARTNERING WITH UNIVERSITIES AND INDUSTRIES

Cagayan State University (CSU) hosted the 20th national and 5th international conference of the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities of Industrial Technology (PACUIT), Inc. from October 2-4, 2024, at CSU Claude Andrews Convention Center.

This year’s conference, themed “The Foresight for Industrial Technology Education,” brought together academicians, scholars, practitioners, and researchers from across the globe to discuss advancements in industrial technology education and foster collaborations between academic institutions and industries. Approximately 26 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) from across the country participated in the event, both virtually and in person.

In his welcome message, CSU OIC President Arthur G. Ibañez, emphasized the importance of creating an environment that nurtures innovation and partnerships. “As we kick off this convention, let us remember that our shared goal is to foster an environment where ideas flourish and partnerships thrive,” Dr. Ibañez said, encouraging attendees to work together in developing innovative practices that will elevate their institutions and contribute to national progress.

PACUIT President and Bulacan State University President, Dr. Teody C. San Andres, expressed his gratitude to CSU for hosting the three-day conference. He noted that the conference serves as a platform not just for idea exchange, but for understanding the critical role of academic institutions in driving the industrial revolution.

Further, Dr. Suresh Kumar Dhameja, Director General of the Colombo Plan Staff College (CPSC), delivered his keynote address highlighting the importance of industrial partnerships in fostering innovation and technopreneurship. He shared case studies from India, Germany, the USA, Thailand, Korea, Australia, and Singapore, illustrating how technical education can evolve through collaboration with industry.

DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, also voiced his strong support for initiatives that promote technological education in SUCs ensuring the DOST’s commitment to advancing industrial technology education in the country.

The event featured series of plenary sessions on industrial technology education, the rise of artificial intelligence and its impact, and practical methodologies for implementing industrial technology projects. Distinguished speakers included Dir. Toni June Tamayo, Regional Director of TESDA Region 02; Dr. Shashi Kant Gupta, Postdoctoral Fellow and Researcher in Computer Science Engineering at Eudoxia Research Center, USA; Mr. Willie Pua, General Manager of DAC Industrial Electronics; and Dr. Marlon C. Leyesa, Dean of the College of Industrial Technology at Bulacan State University.

On the second day, paper presentations on various themes will be conducted, including engineering, ICT and emerging technologies, climate change and environmental management, food safety and security, industrial arts, and teaching innovations in industrial technology. Awards for Best Presenter, Best Paper, and the Logo-Making Contest will be announced during the closing ceremony on October 4.

Meanwhile, a new set of officers and board of trustees will be inducted as part of the PACUIT annual assembly and business meeting.