Catbalogan City, Philippines — Samar Colleges, Inc. (SCI) has taken a decisive step toward modernizing education by completing its three-day orientation and training program, SCI Courseware: From Orientation to Digital Instructional Practice. The program was held from August 6 to 7 and resumed on August 10, 2026, at the Elementary Department Smart Room. The initiative brought together faculty members from across disciplines to strengthen their engagement with SCI’s digital learning platform and policy, underscoring the institution’s vision of advancing innovative, technology-enhanced, and learner-centered instruction.
The program opened with a formal ceremony that included an audiovisual prayer and national anthem, followed by an inspiring message from Dr. Pedrito G. Padilla, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. Dr. Lydia A. Gonzales, Head of Human Resource Management, laid out the rationale for the training, emphasizing the importance of responsible AI integration in education. Dr. Marilyn D. Cardoso, Senior Vice President for PDQA, then provided an overview that set the tone for the sessions ahead, highlighting the institution’s readiness for innovation, data infrastructure, and equitable digital practices.
Faculty participants from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) and the College of Business and Management (CBM) were the first to experience the orientation on August 6. They engaged in demonstrations and workshops that introduced the SCI Courseware platform, guided by the OIC Director for ISSO and TWG for Admin, Mr. Peter Lee M. Lacanlale, and the AI Integration Chair for Academic Departments, Mr. Fritz S. Remigio. The two speakers simultaneously laid out the ingenious process around the innovative utilization of the courseware. Ms. Yanie Mae Cordero, AI Integration Chair for Basic Education, followed with a discussion on the SCI Courseware Policy, reinforcing guidelines for consistent and responsible use of the digital tools.
The following day, August 7, faculty members from the College of Criminal Justice Education (CoCJE) joined the training, taking a bold leap toward innovative education. Their participation reflected a strong commitment to preparing future criminal justice professionals with technology-enhanced instruction, ensuring that their field remains responsive to the demands of a rapidly evolving academic and professional landscape.
The orientation culminated on August 10 with the College of Education (COED), whose faculty embraced the courseware with enthusiasm. As educators of future teachers, they recognized the platform’s potential to transform classroom instruction into a more interactive, learner-centered experience. Their engagement highlighted the importance of pedagogical innovation and the seamless integration of technology into teaching and learning.
Throughout the three days, participants shared impressions, engaged in open forums, and pledged their commitment to the institution’s digital transformation. Certificates were distributed to acknowledge their participation, and closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Gonzales, who emphasized SCI’s vision of rising as a leader in digital education.
By uniting faculty from CLAS, SCTI, CITAS, CBM, CoCJE, and COED, Samar Colleges has laid a strong foundation for its digital future. The SCI Courseware initiative is not merely a platform but a commitment to empowering faculty, embracing innovation, and ensuring that education at SCI remains relevant, equitable, and future-ready.