News Details

IDIG Project proposes changes to BSA Curriculum

MinSCAT recently concluded CHED- funded project under Institutional Development and Institutional Grant (IDIG) project aimed at improving the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture’s alignment with industry. Through the project, linkages were established with Central Luzon State University (CLSU), Cavite State University (CvSU), and Visayas State University (VSU), three research projects were implemented, and capacity on statistical analysis, and project monitoring and evaluation were increased. More importantly, MinSCAT was able to link with more than 30 local small and medium enterprises.

To strengthen the BSA curriculum to best serve the stakeholders, results of the researches and lessons gathered from cross-visits were presented to various stakeholders for a participatory revision of the curriculum. The extension activities of the Program was proposed to be institutionalized where factors for impact assessment are integrated in the program. Strong linkages with local government units as well as with the community and stakeholders should be developed to strengthen commodity-based programs To strengthen the BSA curriculum to best serve the stakeholders, results of the researches and lessons gathered from cross-visits were presented to various stakeholders for a participatory revision of the curriculum. The extension activities of the Program was proposed to be institutionalized where factors for impact assessment are integrated in the program. Strong linkages with local government units as well as with the community and stakeholders should be developed to strengthen commodity-based programs specific to their needs. Research focused on technology development should be strengthened to support extension. Research, on the other hand, was projected to improve with increased incentive, enhancement of faculty profile, and more enabling policies.

The meat of the improvement however, is focused on the curriculum revision carrying the insignia of Mindoro. With the increasing concern on chemical accumulation in the food chain as well as environmental degradation, modules on Mangyan Agriculture should be offered as one elective to highlight indigenous knowledge inherent to the island’s natives. In support of this, policy on team teaching between knowledge owners (Mangyan Farmers) and Professors should be developed. Demonstration farms should be built to highlight both indigenous and research-based technologies. On the other hand, entrepreneurship should be integrated to the curriculum to feed on the economics of the endeavor.

The changes in the curriculum is expected to take effect upon presentation to the Board of Trustees.