INTRODUCTION
Cebu Normal University (CNU) has achieved a significant milestone in its academic journey as it was granted accreditation for its Master of Science in Mathematics (MS Math) program by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The successful evaluation and ocular visit conducted by the DOST representatives, led by former DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña, together with DOST-SEI Deputy Director Engr. Albert Mariño, DOST-7 Regional Director Engr. Jesus Zamora, and other math experts, on July 11, 2023, at the EMMA Center in Cebu City marked an important step in CNU’s participation in the DOST-SEI STRAND Scholarship Program. The accreditation has positioned CNU as one of the delivering institutions for the MS Math program under Project STRAND.
EVALUATION PROCESS AND OCULAR VISIT
The evaluation process and ocular visit were carried out meticulously to assess the suitability of CNU’s MS Math program for inclusion in the DOST-SEI STRAND Scholarship Program. The DOST representatives, comprised of experts in the field of mathematics and education, thoroughly examined various aspects of the program, including its curriculum, faculty qualifications, research facilities, and overall infrastructure.
The ocular visit began at 8:00 AM, with the DOST representatives being warmly welcomed by the CNU faculty and staff. The evaluation team had the opportunity to interact with the program coordinators, faculty members, and students of the MS Math program. They engaged in productive discussions, gaining insights into the program’s academic rigor, research initiatives, and overall learning environment.
ACCREDITATION AND SIGNIFICANCE
Following a comprehensive assessment, the DOST representatives acknowledged the commendable efforts of CNU in offering a high-quality MS Math program. The successful accreditation serves as a testament to CNU’s commitment to excellence in education and research, as well as its alignment with the objectives of the DOST-SEI STRAND Scholarship Program.
By being granted accreditation, CNU joins the ranks of esteemed institutions contributing to the advancement of science and technology in the country. The MS Math program at CNU will provide aspiring mathematicians with a robust academic foundation, extensive research opportunities, and access to a supportive community of scholars.
The inclusion of CNU as a delivering institution for the DOST-SEI STRAND Scholarship Program expands opportunities for talented individuals pursuing advanced studies in mathematics. It opens doors for aspiring researchers and professionals, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute to the development of the nation in various sectors, including education, industry, and research.
CONCLUSION
The successful accreditation of CNU’s MS Math program by the DOST through the evaluation and ocular visit conducted by the esteemed representatives led by former DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña signifies a significant achievement for the university. This accreditation under the DOST-SEI STRAND Scholarship Program reinforces CNU’s position as an institution of academic excellence and further elevates its stature in the field of mathematics education.
CNU’s commitment to providing a robust academic program, state-of-the-art facilities, and a nurturing learning environment sets the stage for the next generation of mathematicians to thrive and make valuable contributions to the field. The accreditation serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work of the university’s faculty, staff, and students in pursuing excellence in education and research.
With the accreditation, CNU is poised to make a significant impact on the advancement of mathematics in the country, contributing to the development of a highly skilled and knowledgeable workforce. The university’s participation in the DOST-SEI STRAND Scholarship Program signifies its commitment to national development through the promotion of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
The successful conduct of the TWG evaluation and ocular visit is a milestone that marks the beginning of a new chapter for CNU’s MS Math program. It is a testament to the university’s dedication to providing quality education and research opportunities to students, further cementing its position as a leading institution in the field of mathematics education in the country.
