ISUFST thinks ‘futures’; launches ‘BangKa sa KaBuHi Ta’ campaign

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ILOILO State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) initially launched the “BangKa sa KaBuHi Ta” campaign after completing Phase 1 of the Futures Thinking Workshop on September 10-11, 2023. This renewed narrative of the university represents ISUFST’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

The unofficial campaign uses a boat to symbolize ISUFST’s past, present, and future. The acronym “BangKa sa KaBuHi Ta” aligns with ISUFST’s flagship products— Bangrus, Kasag, Kanding, Bulgan, Hipon, and Talaba—emphasizing its mission.

During the second day of the workshop, President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr. showed his support for this crusade that aims to create a clear institutional narrative that explores possibilities and envisions desired outcomes. He also highlighted the importance of “futures thinking” in shaping ISUFST’s future alongside the “BangKa sa KaBuHi Ta” battle cry.

The Futures Thinking Workshop kicked off a six-month “Futures Thinking” program with four parts spread until February 2024. It is spearheaded by the Research and Development Office, spearheaded by Director Jescel Bito-onon.

The workshop featured high-caliber speakers like Mr. Emmanuel de Guia, a Futurist associated with the Senate Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, Innovation, and Futures Thinking. By throwing thorny questions, he emphasized the need to challenge conventional thinking through futures-oriented approaches.

Ms. Ma. Christine Reyes from Aptissimo Development Innovations, Inc. provided an orientation on the workshop’s core concepts via Zoom. On the other hand, Ms. Jalaine Joyce Malabanan, Chief of the Center for Futures Research of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, engaged the participants to reflect upon the value of “Looking Back to Look Forward.”

Meanwhile, via online, Senator Pilar Juliana “Pia” Cayetano also expressed her support for ISUFST’s initiative, highlighting the importance of foresight in shaping a sustainable future.

The workshop started and ended with “Elevator Pitch” activities. After the initial orientation about “futures thinking” and “foresight,” the participants identified trends impacting ISUFST and proposed strategies to make the university future-ready. Considering an existential scenario, they were also asked to present, work in groups, and sell their assigned profession like their lives are on the line before the end of the workshop.

ISUFST aims to use futures thinking to create a brighter future for the university and its stakeholders. This workshop marks the start of a transformative journey to navigate emerging challenges and opportunities.

In the words of Mr. Emmanuel de Guia, “Futures thinking is used to develop a vision of the preferred future, representing a shared vision of those involved.” He added ISUFST’s “BangKa sa KaBuHi Ta” metaphor reflects its commitment to excellence and innovation. (Text written by Herman Lagon and photos taken by Rother Gaudiel and Hannah Dadivas)