Category: Featured

After attending a seminar-workshop on “Intensifying Strategies for Global University Rankings & Scopus Publications” last November 12-13, 2024, JBLCF-Bacolod, spearheaded by the Unit RDC, initiated the idea of forming a Core Group of Authors and Writers for Scopus Publication.

The seminar workshop, attended by selected participants from the three academic campuses, provided strategic directions for increasing publications in Scopus-indexed journals. This initiative aims to eventually place JBLFMU in world university rankings. The challenge is to raise the university’s current record of 50+ articles published in Scopus-indexed journals to 100 and beyond.

Translating What We Learned from the Seminar-Workshop

To answer this challenge, JBLCF-Bacolod has identified a core group of researchers composed of faculty researchers and students, particularly those who attended the aforementioned activity, who will be tasked to write various types of publishable materials (research articles, commentaries, essays, etc.) for Scopus publication. A follow-up workshop for the core group will be held at the start of 2025. This team will work under the supervision of the Unit Research Coordinator in collaboration with the Academic Deans of the College of Maritime Education and the College of Business and Education and instructors teaching Research.

Dr. Emeliza Estimo, Research Coordinator of JBLCF-Bacolod, presented her paper at the 24th Annual Conference of the Southeast Asian Association for Institutional Research (SEAAIR 2024), held from November 4 to 7, 2024, at the University of Foreign Language Studies in Danang. The conference focused on “Education Creativity and Sustainability in the Digital Era,” attracting over 100 participants from various countries.

Discussions at the conference revolved around creative and sustainable education, empowering educational technologies, and the role of data-driven decision-making in institutional research. Keynote addresses highlighted schools’ need to prepare for blended learning and the importance of nurturing critical thinkers to tackle sustainability challenges. The integration of AI tools like ChatGPT was debated for its potential to enhance language learning, while recommendations for future research included assessing generative AI’s long-term impacts on student performance. Overall, SEAAIR 2024 served as a vital platform for collaboration among educational professionals committed to innovation in teaching and learning in today’s digital landscape.

The IAMU AGA 2024 conference, held from October 9 to 12, 2024, at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, centered on “Protecting our Mariners, promoting our industry, and providing for the future,” facilitating vital discussions among maritime professionals and students. This event served as a platform for exploring critical issues such as policy, technology, and environmental sustainability, which are essential for shaping the future of the maritime sector.

Among the four representatives of JBLFMU were 2/O Nestor Herpacio Jr., OBTO Supervisor of JBLCF-Bacolod, and D/C Kirby Ofianga, a Misuga cadet who presented their papers at the IAMUC and IAMUS, respectively. The participation of 2/O Nestor Herpacio Jr. and Kirby Ofianga as paper presenters at the IAMU AGA 2024 not only showcased their individual talents but also highlighted JBLFMU’s commitment to developing world-class researchers in maritime education. Their contributions among a diverse group of professional and student presenters exemplify the university’s dedication to fostering a new generation of competent maritime leaders who are well-equipped to address industry challenges and promote sustainable practices in maritime operations. This engagement reinforces JBLFMU’s mission to cultivate innovative thinkers capable of driving advancements within the maritime sector.

October 16, 2024. JBLCF-Bacolod marked a significant milestone in the College of Maritime Education, particularly the Marine Engineering program, with the presentation of research proposals under the SEA-CHANGE Project (Seafaring Educational Agenda: Collaborative Hub for the Advancement of Next-Gen Marine Engineering). The proposed projects were titled “Mastering Electrical Control Systems (MECS): Development of an Electro Trainer System” and “Development of Innovative Training Module for Automation in the Ship’s Bilge Pumping System,” with Engr. Angel Mae Gangoso (Faculty, Allied & Sciences) and C/E Joni P. Gan (Program Head-BSMarE) as Project Leaders, respectively, and 3E Paul Olimpos as member and co-author. This initiative, which was conceptualized in March 2024, aims to foster innovation and research in marine engineering.

The event featured a special guest, Engr. Ramnyl John A. Abeto from the Technological University of the Philippines-Visayas, who provided expert reviews of the proposals. His insights were invaluable in guiding the teams on how to enhance their project plans for completion within the academic year. Engr. Abeto’s presence underscored the collaborative spirit of the event, as he encouraged aspiring engineers to refine their ideas and embrace constructive feedback.

The gathering was also attended by key figures from JBLCF-Bacolod, including Engr. Sylvino Tupas, PhD, Administrator; CM John Erll Destacamento, PhD, Dean of the College of Maritime Education; and OIC Quality Assurance Manager 3E Bernard Sorbito, Jr. Their support and encouragement inspired the researchers to explore the vast opportunities available in marine engineering and technology.

The SEA-CHANGE Project represents a promising step forward in marine education at JBLCF-Bacolod, aiming to cultivate a new generation of engineers equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead in this vital field. These projects reflect JBLCF-Bacolod’s commitment to integrating practical experience with academic learning, preparing students for real-world challenges in marine engineering.

The collaboration among students, faculty, and industry experts is set to drive innovation and excellence in marine engineering education. The event was facilitated by the Unit Research and Development Center, headed by Dr. Emeliza Estimo, Research Coordinator of JBLCF-Bacolod.