ILOILO CITY (PIA) — The upgrading of Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology’s (ISUFST) automotive training facilities is planned after the university secured the P1.89 million Rotary International Global Grant.
This milestone, according to ISUFST, vows to enhance technical education and workforce readiness in Iloilo.
ISUFST President Nordy D. Siason Jr. referred to the grant as a key step in the university’s commitment to quality, industry-relevant education.
“We’re not just teaching students—we’re preparing them to shape Iloilo’s workforce. This grant is an investment in education and a commitment to empowering ISUFST and the local community for years to come,” Siason said.
The project is set for full use by April 2025, after turnover rites at the ISUFST Main Campus.
The grant was made possible through ISUFST’s collaboration with the Rotary Clubs of Iloilo and Namweon Central (South Korea), designed to bridge the automotive skills gap by providing students with hands-on training using modern technology.
The grant will fund the acquisition of cutting-edge automotive equipment, including a heavy-duty electric car post-type lifter, a light-duty electric car scissor-type lifter, diesel engines with computer boxes and harnesses, gasoline engines with computer boxes and harnesses, TIG/MIG welding machines, portable welding machines, acetylene welding machines and a digital oscilloscope dual trace.
ISUFST faculty member and Primary Rotarian Proponent of the grant Herman Lagon said the project is aimed at job generation and entrepreneurship.
“This grant is a relief and a great opportunity for our present and future students and extension beneficiaries. With advanced training facilities, they can build careers and even start businesses, creating jobs and strengthening the local economy,” Lagon shared.
The initiative is part of AIM Iloilo (Automotive Industry Modernization Project), a three-year extension program meant to train over 300 students and community members, enhance faculty expertise in automotive technology and establish sustainable automotive services for local residents. (AAL/LMLE/PIA Iloilo/With reports from ISUFST)
