BukSU completes capdev program for research on University Future’s Thinking and Foresight

Sixty unit heads of Bukidnon State University (BukSU) have completed a series of intensive programs on University Futures-Thinking and Foresight facilitated by Aptissimi Development Innovations, Inc. (ADII) and the Philippine Futures Thinking Society.

Futures Thinking is a strategic approach to considering future scenarios and defining the most preferable ones for people and society. According to ADII, future thinking “happens as a result of decisions, actions, and issues occurring in the present. It includes all the future scenarios that are likely to happen to make the best choices for everyone involved, which is known as the preferred future.”

Why foresight matters for BukSU

“Futures thinking allows universities to identify potential future trends and adapt their programs and services accordingly. This adaptability is crucial for staying relevant and meeting the needs of students and society,” said Ms. Astred Jill A. Catolpos, Presidential Technical Operations Head on behalf of Ms. Joan Vivien B. Necosia, Futures Thinking Focal Person.

“By anticipating future trends and challenges, universities can align their research agendas with emerging issues. This proactive approach fosters innovation and ensures that the institution remains at the forefront of knowledge creation and dissemination,” she added.

The participants produced six research proposals anchored in the SMART BukSU agenda to address the challenges and opportunities faced by the university and the local community.

With BukSU continuing its pursuit for excellence in the four-fold functions: instruction, research, extension, and production, Future Thinking helped in identifying the skills and knowledge that will be in demand, enabling universities to develop relevant and forward-looking curricula. This ensures that graduates are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the future.

Unit heads were introduced to the theoretical and practical aspects of future thinking. Various tools were also utilized for data gathering, scenario planning, backcasting, value creation, and moonshots.

The program is funded by the Senate Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, Innovation, and Future Thinking chaired by Senator Pia Cayetano.

BuKSU extended its gratitude to the Philippine Futures Thinking Society, Mr. Emmanuel De Guia, Resident Futurist of the Philippine Senate Committee on SDGs, Innovation, and Futures Thinking, and the Director for Strategic Partnership and Networking of the Philippine Futures Thinking Society (PhilFutures) and the ADII training team Director Christine Reyes, Dr. Ruperto Sangalang, Mr. Darwin Flores, Mr. Joel Abelinde, Mr. Reginald Rex Barrer, Mr. Alfred Dicto, Mr. Eric Aseo, Ms. Jalaine Malabanan, Ms. Imee Pagdanganan, Ms. Jeanette Gomez and Ms. Eena Reyes. (with information from the Office of the BukSU President)