SDG 4, 8, and 16 Awareness: SIT Hosts Workplace Readiness Seminar for IT Students
Last April 14, 2026, the School of Information Technology (SIT) successfully conducted a Workplace Readiness Seminar, bringing together students from the BS Computer Science (BSCS), BS Computer Engineering (BSCpE), Associate in Computer Technology (ACT), and BS Information Technology (BSIT) programs. The event aimed to prepare IT students with the professional skills and workplace knowledge required for today’s competitive job market.
Equipping Students with Professional Skills for the Workplace
The seminar focused on developing essential professional skills for students, enabling them to transition smoothly from academic life to employment. Participants gained a deeper understanding of workplace expectations, responsibilities, and industry standards.
This initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, which promotes skill development and lifelong learning opportunities necessary for employability and career success.
Legal Awareness and Data Privacy in the Workplace
The seminar featured Atty. Kim Belingon-Bahul as the resource speaker, who delivered an insightful discussion on workplace laws, professional conduct, and data privacy. She emphasized the importance of understanding legal frameworks that guide employee behavior and protect sensitive information in professional environments.
This topic aligns with SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, highlighting the importance of accountability, ethical practices, and adherence to legal standards in the workplace.
Key Workplace Skills Every IT Student Must Develop
Atty. Belingon-Bahul highlighted critical competencies that students must develop to succeed in their careers, including:
- Effective communication skills
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Adaptability in dynamic work environments
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
These in-demand workplace skills are essential in achieving SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, which promotes productive employment and a globally competitive workforce.
Workplace Ethics and Values Formation
The seminar also emphasized workplace ethics, professionalism, and values formation for internships and future employment. Students were encouraged to practice integrity, accountability, discipline, and respect—qualities that define successful professionals.
By instilling these values early, the seminar helps shape students into responsible individuals who can contribute positively to their organizations and communities.
Open Forum
During the open forum, when asked about the most commonly lacking soft skill among students, Atty. Kim Belingon-Bahul identified communication skills as the most significant gap based on her professional experience. She emphasized that effective communication is essential in the workplace, as it directly impacts teamwork, clarity of tasks, and overall productivity.
Atty. Belingon-Bahul also addressed a common misconception among students regarding internships. She noted that many students tend to perceive internship as something “internship lang” or merely a requirement to be completed, rather than recognizing it as a meaningful professional learning experience. She stressed that internships should be treated as an opportunity to develop real-world skills, demonstrate professionalism, and build a strong foundation for future employment.
Preparing Job-Ready IT Graduates
Overall, the Workplace Readiness Seminar served as a valuable platform for enhancing both the technical and professional competencies of IT students. It reinforced the importance of combining skills, ethics, and legal awareness in building a successful career.
By integrating Sustainable Development Goals into the discussion, the School of Information Technology continues to produce job-ready graduates who are not only skilled but also ethical and socially responsible.
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