September 12, 2024 – The Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) conducted an orientation for its faculty members to enhance their knowledge of policies and updates relevant to their roles. The program aimed to provide clarity on important institutional guidelines and support the professional growth of the faculty.The program kicked off with an inspiring opening message from Dr. Ma Luz F. Cabatan, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who warmly welcomed everyone, especially the newest members of the faculty. The discussions that followed were filled with valuable insights, highlighting important policies and updates to guide and support the faculty members in their roles.
Ms. Veronica M. Dulay, Head of the Human Resource Management Unit, led the discussion on policies related to leave, official time, and official travel. Her presentation aimed to ensure that faculty members are well-informed about their entitlements and responsibilities concerning these policies.
Accountant III, Ms. Lorieflor F. Aragon, provided an overview of the Commission on Audit (COA) findings regarding the minimum workload requirements for faculty. She emphasized the importance of compliance with these standards to maintain the quality of education and align with COA regulations.
Further enriching the orientation, Dr. Jocelyn H. Diaz, DEM, President of ASCOT Faculty Association, and Ms. Nikita A. Del Mundo, Instructor from the School of Education, discussed the highlights of Joint Circular No. 3, s. 2022 (JC3) issued by the Department of Management and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). This circular provides guidelines on the reclassification of faculty positions in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), which directly impacts career progression for academic staff.
Engr. Oscar C. Barawid, Jr., Ph.D., Vice President for Administration, Planning, and Finance, in his message highlighted ASCOT’s key initiatives, including securing salary increases for COS personnel, developing the Agriculture BAZAL Campus, and plans for a new front-area building. He also emphasized ongoing efforts to support student welfare and development.
ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes urged faculty to prioritize professional growth and a research-oriented mindset. He emphasized active engagement in education, research, extension, and production, integrating research into ASCOT’s culture through student guidance and international publications. “Dapat ay taglayin ang pagiging research-oriented: Isama ang mga estudyante, gawing kultura ang pagsasaliksik, at mag-ambag sa mga international journal. Maging aktibo sa komunidad—tungkulin natin ito bilang guro ng ASCOT,” he said.
He also highlighted key initiatives, including the Japan project, the Swine Recovery Project, and SOAS’s enhancement through language and cultural exchanges. He urged faculty collaboration, emphasizing teamwork, mutual growth, and uplifting one another to strengthen ASCOT’s community impact.
Before the event concluded, President Reyes administered the oath-taking ceremony for the newly elected officers of the ASCOT Faculty Association, fostering a spirit of leadership and commitment among the faculty body.
This orientation served as a vital platform for faculty members to stay informed and aligned with institutional policies, ensuring a cohesive and well-guided academic environment at ASCOT.