ISUFST welcomes 1,800 new students

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) welcomed approximately 1,800 new students today, August 5, joining more than 6,000 returning students and hundreds of faculty, staff, and administrators across its five campuses.

This year’s incoming class is the result of the university’s first systemwide synchronized paper-and-pencil admission process, which included rigorous screening measures such as interviews, skills assessments, and aptitude tests.

This enhanced selection process aligns with ISUFST’s mission to elevate educational standards and provide opportunities to deserving candidates, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“We are eagerly anticipating the arrival of our new and returning students at ISUFST. Our rigorous admission process ensures that we bring in students who are not only academically capable but also passionate about contributing to our university community. We are committed to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment that fosters learning and growth, in line with our vision to become a leading research university in Southeast Asia by 2030,” ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. said.

Dr. Joan Belga, ISUFST Vice President for Academic Affairs, highlighted the university’s guiding principles and commitment to academic excellence.

“Welcome to ISUFST, dear students. You are now part of an institution that upholds the values of integrity, social justice, discipline, and academic excellence. We hope these principles will become an integral part of your journey here and beyond, shaping you into productive citizens who contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.

Dr. Johnny Dolor, ISUFST Vice President for Administration and Finance, emphasized the improvements in infrastructure and resources.

“We have been working diligently to enhance our facilities and academic resources. The recent recognitions and affirmations from various institutions, including the Commission on Higher Education and the Department of Education, affirm our commitment to providing quality education. We look forward to a productive and enriching academic year,” Dr. Dolor added.

Thousands of students attended Monday morning flag rites and visited their respective colleges across the university’s five campuses for further instructions, including details about their classes and requirements.

The new and returning undergraduate students will be enrolled in the following programs across ISUFST campuses:

Main Campus-Tiwi Site, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo:

• Bachelor of Science in Fisheries (BSF)
• Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology (BSMB)
• Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd)
• Bachelor of Physical Education (BPE)
• Bachelor of Local Government Administration (BLGA)
• Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSTM)

Main Campus-Poblacion Site, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo:

• Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd)
• Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd)
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT)
• Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM)
• Bachelor of Industrial Technology (BIT)

Dumangas Campus, Dumangas, Iloilo:

• Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd)
• Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd)
• Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM)
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT)

Dingle Campus, Dingle, Iloilo:

• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSAgri)
• Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd)
• Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd)
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT)
• Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM)

San Enrique Campus, San Enrique, Iloilo:

• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSAgri)
• Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd)
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT)
• Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM)
• Bachelor of Science in Office Administration (BSOA)

Interviews with new students and their parents revealed that many considered ISUFST their top choice for higher education due to its proximity, quality of education, and improving facilities. The university has recently strengthened its faculty and infrastructure, earning numerous awards and recognition from esteemed institutions.

Dr. Siason concluded, “We are dedicated to ensuring that our students receive an education that equips them for future success. Our commitment to our guiding principles, mandate, vision, and mission remains unwavering. We look forward to a successful and enriching academic year ahead.” (Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)