A one day conference on the "Trends, Directions and Innovations in Philippine Higher Education in the coming decade" was held last August 1, 2009 at the College Amphitheater. Atty. Julito D. Vitriolo, CESO III Executive Director IV of the CHED Central Office explained the role of CHED in the development of the Philippine Higher education. He discussed the structure of the Commission of which he was largely responsible because he was with CHED when it started in 1995.

"Of all the countries in Asia-Pacific, the Philippines is the only country with ten year basic education program," Atty. Vitriolo said. "Most other countries including the U.S., have twelve (12) years of basic education and a two year College preparatory program before entering University. Thus on the average education, most of the students in those countries complete from 15 to 17 years of total schooling. In our country, we have about 14 years only," he added.

"This has impact on the quality of our graduates and their inability to get good jobs abroad, and therefore failing to compete globally." he said. He added that the challenge in the next decade "is to improve the quality of education by following the 6-4-2-3 scheme (six years of elementary, four years of high school, two years of college preparatory and three years of professional education). "This is the only way we can keep up with global trends" he emphasized.

The symposium was attended by AURA School Administrators, Faculty, undergraduate and graduate students of the College. College President Dr. Edgar Geniza welcomed the participants. Prof. Albert Layug, faculty president, introduced the Guest Speaker. Dr. Maricris Domingo, over-all coordinator of the School of Nursing gave the closing remarks. Dr. Armin Santos, College HR Head hosted the conference.

Seminar participants

Participants - Faculty, Admin Staff, and selected students

Atty.Vitriolo with AURISTAS

Atty. Julito Vitriolo with College President Dr. Edgar G. Geniza, HRD Head Dr. Armin Santos, and Teacher Education Students.