Bridging Academia and Industry: MSU-IIT and Odoo Forge a Transformative Partnership

In an era where the practical application of classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios stands paramount, a groundbreaking collaboration emerges between the Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) and Odoo. This partnership marks a significant milestone, blending academic rigor with the dynamism of the business software realm, to equip the next generation of IT professionals with unparalleled practical skills. Through this alliance, students specializing in BS Information Systems within MSU-IIT's College of Computer Studies are set to experience an educational journey like no other, enriched with interactive workshops and real-life case studies courtesy of Odoo.

The memorandum of understanding and partnership inked between MSU-IIT and Odoo paves a new path for students, immersing them in the intricacies of business software solutions. Recognizing the comprehensive range of solutions offered by Odoo, MSU-IIT has adeptly integrated this software into its Enterprise Systems curriculum. This strategic move not only enriches the academic experience but also prepares students for the complexities of the business world, ensuring they are well-versed in the latest technological advancements.

The collaboration took a significant leap forward on April 18, when Ivan Kwok, Odoo's esteemed Education Officer, delivered an insightful guest lecture focusing on the Odoo Studio app. This session unveiled a no-code approach to customizing and developing personalized Odoo applications, offering students a glimpse into the future of software development. The anticipation builds for the upcoming workshop on May 7, where students will delve deeper into the practical utilization of Odoo apps for efficient project management.

"I am excited to work with the school to showcase more Odoo functionality," Ivan Kwok expressed, highlighting the mutual enthusiasm underpinning this partnership. "We are confident that our workshops will offer students an insider look into business management and prepare them for a successful career."

The alliance between MSU-IIT and Odoo extends beyond mere workshops. It encompasses the provision of comprehensive training materials and lectures on all Odoo Online applications, catering to both students and faculty members. This initiative ensures that the academic community at MSU-IIT has free and unfettered access to a wealth of knowledge, further enhancing their learning experience and academic endeavors.

Assoc. Prof. Lemuel Clark Velasco of MSU-IIT lauded the initiative, stating, "The Odoo education program makes it easier to prepare information systems students on how enterprise resource planning systems are actually used by businesses." This sentiment resonates with the core objective of the partnership – to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and its application in the business landscape.

Odoo's commitment to fostering the next wave of industry leaders is evident through its comprehensive Education Program. Offering interactive workshops, extensive access to Odoo Online, and specific training modules, the program is designed to equip students and educators with the tools needed for success. Odoo's global presence and its array of business solutions further underscore the value of this partnership to MSU-IIT's academic community.

As MSU-IIT and Odoo continue to strengthen their partnership, the future appears promising for students within the College of Computer Studies. This collaboration not only elevates the educational standards but also sets a new benchmark for industry-academia partnerships. With practical skills and real-world insights, students are poised to embark on successful careers, fully equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern business world.

Paving the Path to Prosperity: How Concrete Roads Revolutionize Agriculture in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte

CREDIT: Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)

In the heart of Agusan del Norte, the completion of a concrete paved road in Buenavista stands as a testament to progress and development, particularly in the agricultural sector. This transformative project, spearheaded by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), has not only improved the infrastructure but also significantly enhanced the local agricultural industry. Let's delve into the pivotal role this road plays in the lives of the farmers and the community at large.

The Sitio Afga Road in Barangay Lower Olave, once a gravel path, has undergone a monumental transformation into a concrete road, thanks to the diligent efforts of the DPWH Agusan del Norte District Engineering Office (DEO). Spanning 2.08 kilometers and measuring 9.1 meters in width, this newly paved road connects the barangay and its neighboring villages to the bustling town center of Buenavista and the pivotal Daang Maharlika main highway. This upgrade from gravel to concrete is not merely a change in material but a foundational shift towards easier and faster delivery of farm products to market centers across Agusan del Norte.

The concrete paving of the Sitio Afga Road has ushered in an era of increased agricultural productivity and profitability for the local farmers. With better connectivity and reduced transportation costs, the once arduous journey of farm products to market centers is now a seamless operation. This improved access not only boosts the local agricultural industry but also ensures that the freshest and finest produce reaches consumers more efficiently, enhancing food security and economic stability in the region.

The benefits of the Sitio Afga Road extend beyond the agricultural domain. The road's completion has unlocked access to scenic views and natural resources within the sitio, paving the way for eco-tourism and agro-forestry opportunities. Visitors and potential investors are now drawn to the area, captivated by its natural beauty and the prospect of sustainable development. This opens up new avenues for economic diversification, creating a ripple effect of prosperity that can uplift the entire community.

The concreting of the Sitio Afga Road, completed with a budget of P49.72 million, stands as a shining example of successful collaboration between the DPWH and the Department of Agriculture under the convergence program. This partnership underscores the importance of integrating infrastructure development with agricultural advancement, ensuring that the fruits of progress are felt across all sectors of society.

As we reflect on the transformative impact of the Sitio Afga Road on Buenavista and its surrounding communities, it's clear that infrastructure development is a cornerstone of sustainable agricultural growth. The DPWH, under the guidance of Regional Office 13 Director Pol M. Delos Santos, has laid down not just concrete but also the foundation for a brighter, more prosperous future for the farmers and residents of Agusan del Norte. This project is a beacon of hope, illustrating how strategic investments in infrastructure can pave the way for comprehensive socio-economic development.

The concrete paved road in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, is more than just a pathway; it's a lifeline that connects the dots between agriculture, community, and development, promising a future where progress and prosperity flourish side by side.

Empowering Education: The Dawn of a New Era in Brgy Pigsag-an

CREDIT: Cagayan de Oro City Information Office 

PHOTO CREDITS: JAY ARANCON& ROD CONSTANTINO

In an uplifting event marked by hope and progress, Mayor Klarex Uy spearheaded the groundbreaking ceremony of the eagerly anticipated Pigsag-an National High School today, April 20, 2024. Nestled in the heart of Brgy Pigsag-an, this 2-storey, 6-classroom facility is a testament to the community's dedication to fostering educational growth and opportunities for its youth. As the golden shovels turned the earth, the ceremony symbolized the planting of seeds for the future harvest of educated, empowered, and enlightened generations.

The groundbreaking ceremony was not just a display of machinery and soil being moved; it was a profound demonstration of unity and commitment towards the collective goal of educational excellence. Accompanying Mayor Klarex Uy were distinguished City Councilors Suzette Magtajas-Daba, Roger Abaday, and Malvern Esparcia, alongside SDS Dr. Roy Angelo Gazo, various DepEd officials, and members of the Local School Board. The event was further enriched by the presence of teachers, students, and community members, all of whom witnessed this historic moment unfold. Their collective presence underscored the community's unwavering support for this monumental project.

The construction of the Pigsag-an National High School signifies more than just the erection of a physical structure; it represents the laying of foundational stones for a robust educational system in Brgy Pigsag-an. This initiative is a pillar of Mayor Klarex Uy's commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure, recognizing that quality learning environments are crucial for nurturing the intellectual and moral fibers of students. With state-of-the-art facilities and ample space, the school promises to be a nurturing ground for academic excellence and holistic development.

The impact of this initiative extends far beyond the confines of the new classrooms. By fortifying the educational infrastructure, Brgy Pigsag-an positions itself as a beacon of knowledge and growth. The new Pigsag-an National High School is set to become a central hub for empowering the youth, providing them with the tools and environment necessary to unlock their full potential. It paves the way for transformative education that cultivates critical thinking, creativity, and leadership among students, thereby equipping them for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

As the construction of Pigsag-an National High School progresses, it carries with it the hopes and dreams of the entire community. This project is a clear indication of the local government's steadfast dedication to elevating educational standards and providing equitable access to quality education for all. As we look towards the completion of this landmark project, we stand on the brink of a new era in educational excellence in Brgy Pigsag-an. The concerted efforts of Mayor Klarex Uy, city councilors, educators, and the community herald a future where every child can aspire to and achieve greatness, fueled by the power of education.

Through this groundbreaking ceremony, Mayor Klarex Uy and the collective leadership have not just initiated the construction of a school but have laid the foundations for a brighter, more educated future for Brgy Pigsag-an.