BISCAST conducts simulation for limited face-to face classes

By Zyra Ponce

The Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology (BISCAST) in preparation for its formal re-opening has conducted on Monday, March 21 a dry-run of face-to face classes in Phase 1 (P1) limited programs which offers laboratory courses

Engr. Analyn Madrid, vice president for Academic Affairs (VPAA), said 1,200 out of 4,000 enrolled students are expected to participate in face-to face laboratory courses and classes.

Madrid said they crafted a policy which was approved by the board of trustees on the gradual re-opening of the campus before the actual conduct of dry-run for limited face-to to face classes and extra-curricular activities. Madrid added that the policy served as the implementing guideline to roll-out the necessary preparations for physical classes and provision of services for the students.

“We also started the consultation with the stake holders, with the students, parents regarding sa vaccination, sa Philhealth,” Madrid said following the five requirements for the conduct of face-to face classes.

The requirements stipulated in CHED-DOH Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 2021:004 “Guidelines on the implementation of limited Face-to face classes for all programs of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) include: students’ vaccination status; Philhealth registration; accomplishment consent or waiver; certificate of registration (Enrollment); and medical certificate from BISCAST, rural health units, private or LGU-issued certification.

“The office of the president also designated an institutional crisis management committee to oversee the implementation of limited face-to face [classes] and to assess the readiness of the school”, Madrid added on the preparation of the college in physical laboratory classes.

However, Madrid explained that the conduct of face-to face classes is not mandatory and will still continue in blended learning platforms.

“Those students who will not participate, they will continue their learning through flexible learning…blended na siya. So may on-site and online,” Madrid added.

“We are also establishing the smart-campus. So kailangan may Learning Management System (LMS), we already processing the procurement of google workspace kasi gagamit pa rin tayo ng digital platforms” Madrid added. He also said that the non-laboratory classes, which include the lectures can be open and offer to the students in the first semester of next academic year.

“I welcome all the students dito sa campus and we expect that all of us, you will observe the health and safety protocols kasi nandiyan pa naman si Covid-19”, Madrid said.