The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) and the Liga ng Mga Barangay of San Enrique formalized a groundbreaking partnership on August 22, 2024, aimed at enhancing the technological capabilities of local barangay officials through the TechKnow Transfer Extension Program.
The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed in a ceremony held at the San Enrique Municipal Hall, marking a significant step toward boosting digital literacy and technological integration in the community.
The agreement was signed by ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., and Liga ng Mga Barangay-San Enrique President Gian Carlo Niño Fernandez, with the support of Vice Mayor Ernesto Palomado, who represented the local government unit in place of Mayor Rosario Mediatrix Fernandez.
The event was attended by key officials from ISUFST, including project leader Prof. Wenda Panes, as well as the 28 barangay captains of San Enrique.
Vice Mayor Palomado emphasized the long-term impact of the program, saying, “This agreement is our legacy to the present and the next generation.”
The TechKnow Transfer Extension Program, which includes the “Computer Utilization and Technology Transfer Endeavors (CompUTTE)” project, is designed to bridge the digital literacy gap among barangay officials through comprehensive ICT-related training and technology transfers.
Prof. Wenda Panes, who leads the initiative from ISUFST’s College of Computer Studies, outlined several innovative components of the program.
These include the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) Management System, the Barangay Information Management System (BIMS), and the TapME Android-based emergency alert application, among others. These tools are tailored to enhance local governance and service delivery.
SB member Gian Carlo Niño Fernandez praised ISUFST’s proactive approach: “Computerization and digitalization are the ways forward. We deeply appreciate ISUFST for responding to our call. We are extending these advancements to the rest of our community leaders, ensuring everyone is equipped for the digital present and networked future.”
Dr. Siason reiterated the university’s commitment to the partnership, pledging ongoing support and highlighting the development of multi-million peso projects at the ISUFST San Enrique campus.
He assured that all deserving students from San Enrique and nearby areas would receive the necessary support from the campus.
The seven-year TechKnow Transfer Extension Program is expected to significantly empower barangay officials by providing them with essential ICT skills and tools, ultimately improving governance and public service delivery in San Enrique.
The initiative will cover essential computer operations, database utilization, and internet navigation, tailored to the needs of the local barangays.
The ceremony concluded with a commitment from both ISUFST and the San Enrique LGU to ensure the program’s sustainability and success.
Future collaborative projects are already being planned, further solidifying this partnership as a model for community engagement and technological advancement in the region.Top of FormBottom of Form (Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)
