USTP Balubal hosts Online Industry Stakeholders’ Forum to strengthen food technology curriculum
By Joe Jr L. Cagatin, BTLED Faculty, USTP Balubal
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Balubal (USTP Balubal) successfully conducted an Online Industry Stakeholders’ Forum (Academe–Industry Consultation) on May 4, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM via Zoom, marking a significant step toward the development of its proposed Bachelor of Science in Food Processing and Technology (BSFPT) program. The virtual forum gathered a diverse group of stakeholders, including industry partners, government agencies, academic representatives, food technologists, and subject matter experts. The consultation served as a collaborative platform aimed at ensuring that the planned academic program remains relevant, responsive, and aligned with the evolving demands of the food processing industry.
Central to the consultation were key objectives designed to bridge the gap between education and industry. Participants worked together to identify essential skills and competencies required of future graduates, validate job roles and responsibilities within the food processing sector, and align academic offerings with real-world practices. The forum also provided an avenue to explore emerging industry trends, technological advancements, and existing skill gaps.
One of the highlights of the discussion was the strong emphasis on producing industry-ready graduates equipped with both technical expertise and practical competencies. Stakeholders underscored the importance of hands-on training and exposure to current food processing technologies to ensure workforce readiness upon graduation.
A DACUM (Developing A Curriculum)-based chart was presented and utilized during the session, allowing participants to systematically map out duties, tasks, and competencies relevant to various food processing careers. This structured approach enabled the identification of multiple industry roles and ensured that the curriculum design reflects actual workplace requirements.
Insights gathered from the forum will play a crucial role in shaping the BSFPT curriculum, reinforcing USTP Balubal’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and industry partnership. By engaging stakeholders in the curriculum development process, the university continues to strengthen its mission of producing globally competitive graduates who can contribute meaningfully to the food processing sector.
The success of the consultation highlights the importance of sustained collaboration between academe and industry in building future-ready educational programs that respond to both local and global workforce needs.
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