ISAT University marks 121 years by paying it forward

ILOILO CITY — Iloilo Science and Technology University formally opened its 121st Foundation Week on Sept. 9, 2026, with a call for students, faculty and other members of the university community to honor its legacy by using their knowledge and skills in service of others.

The opening program was held at the university’s Multipurpose Education Center in La Paz, Iloilo City.

The event began a weeklong celebration of the university’s history, achievements and continuing commitment to education, innovation and service.

The institution traces its roots to the Iloilo Trade School, which was established in 1905 to provide technical and vocational education in the Visayas.

Republic Act No. 10595 converted the former Western Visayas College of Science and Technology into Iloilo Science and Technology University in 2013. The law also incorporated campuses in Barotac Nuevo, Dumangas, Leon and Miagao.

Guest speaker Artemio Pama Jr., the private-sector representative on the ISAT U Board of Regents, centered his remarks on the theme “Paying It Forward.”

Pama encouraged the university community to reflect not only on what it had accomplished but also on what it could do in the years ahead.

He urged the audience to look beyond individual achievements and consider how their education and experiences could benefit the wider community.

“What have we accomplished, to what can we still do for the succeeding years?” Pama asked.

He highlighted four values that he said should continue to guide the university and its community: knowledge, innovation, service and sustainability.

Pama said the strength of an institution ultimately rests on the people who build and carry its legacy.

“Institutions are built by people. Legacies are carried by people,” he said.

He reminded the audience that the significance of an ISAT U education extends beyond receiving a diploma.

Pama said the knowledge, skills and values gained from the university come with a responsibility to give back.

“We carry something with us, not just a diploma, and it compels us to ask ourselves: What can we give back?” Pama said.

He also underscored the importance of ensuring that innovation and technology remain grounded in human needs.

“Innovation should go back to people. Technology should make our lives easier. Progress should be sustainable,” he emphasized.

As ISAT University marked its 121st year, Pama challenged members of its community to consider how they could contribute to the institution’s continuing story.

“What can we do with the legacy passed on to us? We carry it. We pay it forward,” he said.

The opening program set the tone for Foundation Week by highlighting the university’s accomplishments and the present generation’s responsibility to build on its legacy for those who will follow.