In its unwavering commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, the University of San Agustin (USA) recently embarked on a significant step to transition from the ISO 9001:2015 to the ISO 21001:2018 quality standard in education organizations. This move, aimed at enhancing the university’s educational processes and student support services, was marked by a series of comprehensive training sessions held from January 8 to 12, 2024.
The ISO 21001:2018 transition series of training, conducted at the 6th floor of Hotel Sta. Monica, gathered key stakeholders of the University, including the members of the Management Council led by University President, Fr. Frederick C. Comendador, OSA. The ISO Core Team and Internal Quality Auditors were also in attendance, reflecting the university’s commitment to inclusivity and collaboration.
Mr. Bobby Jones V. Domdom, an expert from the Bureau Veritas Philippines Certification, was entrusted with the responsibility of conducting the training sessions. Mr. Domdom’s vast experience and deep knowledge of ISO standards made him the ideal tutor for the first step in the university’s transition to ISO 21001:2018.
The series of training sessions primarily focused on three key areas: ISO 21001:2018 Awareness, Documentation, and the Internal Audit. These areas were carefully selected to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the new quality standard and its implementation within the university’s educational framework.
The awareness training aimed to familiarize participants with the key concepts, requirements, and benefits of ISO 21001:2018. It highlighted the importance of adopting a student-centered approach, emphasizing the university’s commitment to delivering an exceptional educational experience. The training enhanced the participants’ understanding of the eleven management principles of the standard.
Recognizing the significance of proper documentation in implementing ISO 21001:2018, the training sessions provided detailed guidance on developing an exemplary documentation system. Participants were provided with additional knowledge on how to effectively document procedures, policies, and processes in a manner that aligns with the requirements of the new standard. This emphasis on documentation ensures transparency and accountability within the university’s operations.
To ensure the successful implementation and maintenance of ISO 21001:2018, the training program dedicated attention to internal auditing. Participants gained additional insights into the internal audit process, including planning, conducting audits, and reporting findings. This aspect emphasized the importance of self-assessment and continuous improvement, enabling the university to monitor its progress and meet the standard’s objectives effectively.
The University of San Agustin’s transition from ISO 9001:2015 to ISO 21001:2018 is a testament to its unwavering commitment to providing a high-quality educational experience. The comprehensive training series, facilitated by Mr. Bobby Jones V. Domdom, equipped key stakeholders with the necessary knowledge and skills to implement the new standard successfully. By embracing ISO 21001:2018, USA reaffirms its dedication to student-centered education, continuous improvement, and excellence in all aspects of its operations. This transition marks an exciting chapter in the university’s journey towards becoming a leading institution in quality education.
