Five IT Students Attain Proficient Level in TOPCIT

Five Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) students of Bukidnon State University attained Level 4 (Proficient) in the 14th Test of Practical Competency in IT (TOPCIT) Philippines.

The five students are Joenil Acero, Tc Vash Everett Marshburn, Rayden Ivan Delfin, Christian Dave Pombo, and Kathryn Villaganas.

Their results placed them among the examinees who demonstrated proficiency in applying information technology knowledge and skills through the national assessment.

A total of 164 BukSU BSIT students took the assessment on July 23, 2026. Of this number, five attained Level 4 (Proficient), 24 achieved Level 3 (Competent), 90 reached Level 2 (Advanced Beginner), and 45 received Level 1 (Novice).

Dr. Sales G. Aribe Jr., head of the Information Technology Department, TOPCIT administrator for BukSU and one of the students’ coaches, said the results point to the importance of continued skills development among IT students.

“This achievement reflects our students’ dedication to strengthening their IT competencies. We hope this experience inspires them to pursue continuous learning and strive for excellence in their future careers,” Aribe said.

He also encouraged all examinees to continue developing their competencies as they prepare for careers in the technology sector.

TOPCIT is a competency-based assessment developed in the Republic of Korea. It evaluates the practical knowledge and problem-solving abilities of aspiring IT professionals in areas such as software development, data management, system architecture, information security and IT business.

In the Philippines, the Commission on Higher Education supports the implementation of TOPCIT as part of initiatives to align computing and IT education with industry requirements.

According to Aribe, BukSU’s participation in the assessment provides students with an opportunity to gauge their competencies against industry-oriented standards. The results also help identify areas where they can pursue further skills development as they prepare for professional practice.

(By Sales G. Aribe Jr., IT Department head)