Functions
Definition and Legal Bases of Extension
Extension is one of the three mandates of Bicol University along with instruction and research. Extension is broadly defined as the systematic transfer of technology, innovation or information generated by HEIs and its partners to seek solutions to specific developmental concerns. It is purpose-specific, target-specific, and need-specific program of action utilizing the best available data, science and evidences from a range of disciplines to inform systematic approaches to developmental solutions. HEIs are expected to work in partnership with communities, business and industry in facilitating the transfer of knowledge or technology on specific developmental areas that directly affect the lives of individuals, families and communities (CMO 52, s. 2016). The BU Code of 2016 similarly defines extension as an educational program that facilitates the transfer of knowledge, technology and innovation from research and academic institutions to the end-users, taking into consideration their actual needs and problems.
Extension service, as defined in the GAA, is an inherent function of an institution of higher learning with the purpose of initiating, catalyzing, and sustaining the development of various communities, using their experiences and available resources. It is an educational program that facilitates the transfer of knowledge and technology from research and academic institutions to the end-users, taking into consideration their actual needs and problems (BU Code,1994). Furthermore, it is the act of communicating and transferring knowledge and technology to specific sectors and target clienteles… to enable them to improve production, community and/ or institutions, and quality of life at the same time enhance the HEIs academic and research programs (CMO No. 8 series of 2008).
Extension services also involves packaging, demonstration, and application of appropriate technology, tools, materials, processes and products, generated through research and technical studies in selected communities for countrywide adoption. It includes community organizing activities and similar extension, or community development work. It is an alternative educational process and related services are undertaken with the various clienteles of the university for the purpose of initiating, catalyzing, sustaining and widening their opportunities and creating more favorable true-to-life teaching-learning experiences for the students and for the institution.
The definition of extension has gradually evolved through time from the basic concept that it is a non-formal system of education which is organized to provide the people with useful and practical knowledge and technology, and teach them to apply these to improve their lives (Valera, Martinez and Plopinio, 1987).
As an integral mandate of the University, the extension function is governed by legal mandates to include the following:
Industry 4.0 which has global connection in strengthening the university excellence networks, open to cooperation in research and technology transfer, by modernizing and integrating into the industrial system.
2030 UN Sustainable Development Agenda – include 17 goals and 232 indicators embodied in comprehensive, far-reaching and people-centered goals and targets with emphasis on human development approach enlarging people’s choices, both in the formation of human capabilities and the use people make of their capabilities
ASEAN Integration 2015 – states that HEIs shall contribute in achieving competitiveness by assisting producers, processors and traders to meet global employment market and provide excellent professional preparation of students.
Republic Act No. 11293 otherwise known as the Philippine Innovation Act fosters innovation in the country as a vital component of national development and sustainable economic growth. Among its policies is to invest in education, science, technology and innovation that shall be guided by a strategic direction towards strengthening the country’s knowledge-based economic development that benefits all. Innovation starts with a robust pool of skilled, talented and creative people. Educational institutions together with partners are key drivers of programs that stimulate innovation literacy and skills development for the Filipino workforce and entrepreneurs, including women and the youth.
Republic Act No. 9710 Magna Carta of Women (Republic Act No. 9710) – defines Gender and Development Program (GAD) as the development perspective and process that is participatory and empowering, equitable, sustainable, free from violence, respectful of human rights, supportive of self-determination and actualization of human potentials.
Philippine Higher Education Reform Agenda 2017 – emphasizes competitiveness as one of its agenda in upgrading capacity on directed R & D and extension programs to serve socio-economic goals under the developed niche areas; and in the Philippine Higher Education Roadmap for CHED, HEIs and SUCs are “to be in full service of national development” to perform strategic role in Philippine Development Plan.
In support to R.A. 7722, CHED Order No. 02, Series of 2011 states that, in cases where form of compensation is required to personnel engaged in CHED-funded programs and projects which is not among his regular functions, the recognition for personnel’s productivity and extraordinary performance, efficient delivery of services and outputs shall be encouraged.
R.A. 8435 or the Agriculture and Fishery Modernization Act of 1997 – stipulates that the state must give priority on the utilization of research results through formal and non-formal education, extension and training services to support development of national extension system to help accelerate the transformation of Philippine agriculture and fisheries from a resource-based to a technology-based industry (Sec. 86). The extension program of state universities and colleges shall focus on the improvement of LGU capability in extension service through degree and non-degree training program, technical assistance, extension cum research activities, monitoring and evaluation of extension projects, and information support services through tri-media and electronics (Sec. 90). Likewise, CHED established National Agriculture and Fisheries Education System (NAFES) to give priority to education and training on science and technology to accelerate social progress and promote total human liberation and development (Sec. 65, 66).
Republic Act 8292 otherwise known as the Higher Education Modernization Act of 1997 – allows SUCs to establish extension center to promote development of the latter. It also permits institutions to set up the adoption of modern and innovative modes of transmitting knowledge such as the use of information technology, open learning, community laboratory, etc. for the promotion of greater access to higher education.
R.A. 5521 – an act establishing the Bicol University with its mission “to give professional and technical training and provide advanced and specialized instruction in literature, philosophy, the science and the arts, besides providing for the promotion of technological researches”.
Corollary to the directives of the different national offices, extension shall be part of the GAA provision, normative funding, Performance-based Bonus Benefits, PASUC accreditation and evaluation for faculty promotion, International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Institutional Accreditation, Q Stars, and SUC levelling.