Automotive Technology Program of SUCs in the Bicol Region as Input for Curriculum Enhancement

This study analyzed the relevance of the automotive technology program of SUCs in the Bicol Region as input for curriculum enhancement. It examined the profile of the SUC Automotive Technology Program in terms of faculty qualification and laboratory facilities, as well as the status of the program in terms of curriculum and instruction, compliance with quality assurance mechanisms, and graduates’ employability. This research study employed a descriptive survey method. The questionnaires are the main tools in gathering data. Frequency, percentage, and overall mean are the statistical tools utilized in treating the data collected. There were four (4) groups of respondents which consisted of the BSIT major in Automotive Technology and BSAT students enrolled in industry immersion/supervised industry training during AY 2022-2023, automotive technology core faculty members of the five (5) SUCs, graduates of AY 2020-2021 and 2021-2022, and the automotive industry partners of the aforementioned SUCs represented by their service advisors and technicians. It was revealed that most of the faculty lack industry experience as required in CMO 76, s. 2017. Likewise, the qualification of faculty as trainers in automotive and the availability of automotive equipment do not fully meet what is required in the regulation. The SUCs were also non-compliant with CHED and TESDA standards concerning laboratories and physical facilities; SUCs in Region V were compliant with the minimum requirements of CHED.