The Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) organized an activity dubbed as “In-Service Training Workshop for all Faculty” on August 12-13, 2024 at the Agri-Eco Convention Hall, which was attended by around 100 faculty members from various departments and colleges. Aside from the in-service training, August 12, 2024 also marked the first day of service for the contractual faculty members.

Dr. Efren S. Tellermo, Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized in his opening remarks and statement of purpose that this activity is part of the faculty’s professional development as they prepare course syllabi and other academic preparations for the start of classes on August 19, 2024. Furthermore, Dr. Tellermo highlighted all of the topics to be discussed by various speakers. The topics for day one include Professional Behaviour and Ethical Standards in Public Service, Classroom Management, and Syllabus Review and Updates. On day two, the first topic is the key of instructional material development, TOS and test construction, and Google Workspace for Education.

Dr. Lilian Diana B. Parreño, University President, shared updates on the university’s infrastructure during her speech. Dr. Parreño believes that the speakers will share the principles and values that faculty members should uphold as members of the academic community. She emphasized that young adults today are very different from previous generations, and the faculty are the only people they can talk to since the faculty are more than just teachers who transfer knowledge; they are also their second parent away from home, and they are someone they can rely on. Dr. Parreño emphasized the need of faculty being accessible, reaching out to students, and understanding their actions and behaviors, as they may not be aware of their reasons. Then she left a strong message for everyone, saying, “Let us execute our jobs correctly! Let us do it with the idea that we share responsibility for whatever happens to the students. If they succeed, you will be a part of it. If they fail, you are a part of it.”

Following that, the training and workshop began, and the participants expressed gratitude to the VPAA for organizing this two-day program. This allowed them to improve their knowledge, talents, and teaching practices in a variety of academic disciplines.