Sn AIl Momentum

With the goal of Mindanao State University - General Santos becoming a Smart University, it has capitalized on initiatives to develop projects that will bolster the upscaling of the technological capabilities of the institution in bringing topquality education and management services to its constituents. However, recently, graduating students of the university expressed their dismay at the cumbersome system of paying commencement fees in the administrative building. The lobby was crowded with students as they waited in line to complete graduation application requirements. This occurrence only serves the reality of what MSU-Gensan needs to bring to the roundtable as it pushes to befit the qualifications of a Smart University.

In the last academic year 2021, the ICT Modernization Project Presentation set the groundwork for MSU-Gensan to streamline technological growth through projects, such as the ICT Modernization Program, Acquisition and Development of Information Systems for the University, Construction of a 5-story ICT Building, and Universitywide Facilities Upgrade. These plans are established to be implemented from 2022 to 2024, which accordingly would uphold its objectives of becoming a leading university in the Southern Philippines. As impressive as it sounds, plans are always subject to change, and at some point, they never actualize. The goals of the university are significant in transforming the overall administration of its people, but looking at the experience of its constituents, particularly in document processing, they still lag behind. Hence, it is a call to the higher office to not just look into the situation but to act on it.

Years have passed, but the same experience was faced by alumni of the university: the throttling processes of document submissions and request forms continue to be a tale that goes on generation after generation. If history repeats itself, it is the moment we don’t want to experience—to queue up until dawn. Students have been strained by their academic load and organizational responsibilities, and even more so by those living on their own in the dormitories and lodging houses. Therefore, students should not be burdened further by the lingering transactional process of the administrative offices, but instead, they should be allowed to experience a sense of calmness and reduce stress.

Furthermore, having a well-defined communication line is essential in any transaction, whether it involves requests, complaints, or other forms of correspondence. This ensures a smooth flow of information, allowing for the proper tracking and acknowledgment of these demands. Leaving a request unresolved can potentially tarnish one’s reputation. By maintaining clear communication and taking prompt action, positive relationships can be preserved, and negative consequences can be prevented.

It is now evident that the modernization project is indispensable for effectively delivering services to the student body. As an institution dedicated to supporting academic advancement, the administration must prioritize the interests and needs of the students. As a result, in order to develop into a smart university, it is crucial to employ smart strategies to address the challenges faced by the student community.

It is high time to adapt the AI momentum. We can not be smart so long we remain at a snail pace.

LEONARD E. TUCJAYAO