From technological advancements to the wild whirlwind of the COVID-19 pandemic, the higher education landscape in the Philippines has been in constant transformation. One institution that has exemplified adaptability and resilience in this changing environment is Naga College Foundation (NCF),INC. With a proactive approach, NCF quickly adjusted its strategies to ensure uninterrupted education for its students.
By embracing digitalization, NCF has effectively transformed its educational delivery, creating opportunities for students from all over the country. This shift has opened up a close-knit virtual learning environment for students, enabling them to pursue quality education without geographical barriers. Furthermore, it has fostered collaborations between schools across borders, encouraging knowledge exchange and cultural diversity. The institution’s affordability in terms of tuition fees and and other fees combined with its nationally acclaimed accreditation, makes it an attractive choice for students. The reputation of Filipinos for being friendly and caring also contributes to creating a supportive environment where students from different cultures can easily adapt and thrive.
Moreover, the college is committed to innovation, industry relevance, and student success and has positioned it as a leading institution in the Philippine higher education landscape. By offering a comprehensive approach to education, NCF equips its students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen professions. Thisnot only contributes to the growth and development of the country but also prepares students for successful careers in a global context.
Preparing Students to Face Industries
Addressing the challenge of preparing students for the current industry landscape is a top priority for Naga College Foundation, Inc. The administration and stakeholders at NCF recognize the importance of equipping students with competencies and qualities that align with highly digitalized and globalized societies. Approximately 30 percent of NCF’s faculty members are industry practitioners who share their real-world expertise with students. This integration of industry practitioners as faculty members ensures that students receive practical and up-to-date knowledge.
NCF has also introduced micro-credentialing courses and certifications in partnership with Australian, Philippine, and US companies. These micro-credentials are offered alongside mainstream programs, providing students with additional qualifications that give them a competitive edge in their chosen fields. Moreover,NCF has established partnerships with government and private institutions to offer experiential learning opportunities. “Through internships and immersive programs, students gain real-life work experience and develop the necessary skills for their future careers”, Mario C. Villlanueva, President remarks.
Innovations such as the Institute for Innovation and Continuous Education have been established to foster research and professional development among faculty members. NCF actively participates in research colloquia, international cross-cultural exchanges, and professional development programs. By engaging with stakeholders and industries, NCF ensures that its curriculum remains aligned with industry demands, ensuring students are well-prepared for the workforce.
Unique Educational Courses & Quality Faculty
NCF distinguishes itself through its educational courses and commitment to maintaining a high standard of faculty members. Alongside the diverse range of programs and courses offered, NCF has made English enhancing skills an institutional requirement.
This focus on English proficiency ensures that graduates possess strong communication skills, a vital asset in today’s globalized world. They also have provision to learn several other languages. The inclusion of microcredential and certification programs in the curriculum further enhances the holistic education provided by NCF.
To ensure the consistency of faculty quality, NCF employs a faculty performance appraisal tool that evaluates teaching efficiency, research involvement, and professional growth, among other criteria. Regular faculty development programs are conducted to address specific training needs, and faculty members are encouraged to participate in research projects.
By investing in faculty development and performance evaluation, NCF guarantees that students receive instruction from experts who are up-to-date with the latest knowledge and innovations in their fields.
With a focus on preparing students for futuristic industry demands, NCF integrates industry practitioners, offers micro-credential programs, & provides experiential learning opportunities
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure & Scholarship Opportunities
The foundation recognizes the crucial role of infrastructure in providing an optimal learning environment. With an annual budget of over 100 million pesos dedicated to upgrading laboratories and other facilities, NCF ensures that students have access to the latest industry-standard equipment. The institution boasts modern administrative and institutional facilities, student pavilions, learning resource centers, and specialized laboratories catering to various disciplines.
To make quality education accessible and affordable, NCF offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities. These scholarships include compassion for education, Tigers honor scholarships, athletic and band scholarships, and various discounts for families, alumni, employees, and teachers. Through these scholarship programs, NCF aims to minimize student debt, expand networks, and instill a sense of pride and prestige among its students.
By adapting to the changing landscape and embracing global linkages, they create a welcoming environment for both local and international students. Through its commitment to quality education, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and scholarship opportunities, the college ensures that students receive a world-class education and are prepared for successful careers and lives.
Mario C. Villlanueva, MBA, President
MARIO C. VILLANUEVA, MBA, is the current and fifth president of the Naga College Foundation (NCF) since 2015. He has a stellar experience in business methodologies and quality management such as 5S, 6 Sigma, Total Quality Management, ISO 9000, ISO 4000, and OHSAS 18000 through his offshore top management work experiences in Hong Kong, China, Indonesia, and the United States of America prior to his engagement at NCF. Apart from leading the academic institution, the Metro Naga Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Metro Naga Tourism Council were entrusted to his baton, where his leadership focused on startups and turning around of distress companies until its recovery with the most recent, the global pandemic. His exceptional track record in business and management, conferred him the Gawad Banyuhay Award for Resiliency by CBRC Foundation and shaped the MNCCI as the Most Outstanding Chamber in South Luzon in 2022.