[NEWS] Newly-Appointed CSSD Dean Eyes Academic Student Confederation

Written by: Raphael Luis Camarse

Published on March 22, 2021

Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Leaders and representatives from different academic organizations of College of Science and Social Development met with Dean Raul Roland Sebastian, DPA on March 18, 2021 to talk through his ideal plans and vision for the CSSD.

“My vision as dean is to make PUP College of Social Science and Development one of the leading social science colleges in the country.” the dean declared early in the meeting.

The dean also said he will focus on student development, optimize the education for students, and develop leadership training. Plans for finding assistance for scholarship programs and exchange student programs were also discussed to expand the horizons for many CSSD students.

“Let’s try, maapprove man tayo o hindi, at least we tried [finding programs].” the dean remarked.

Among others, Dean Sebastian’s project for the students is a college federation. Its goal is to promote respect, culture, camaraderie between students from every academic course, and to create responsible citizens of the country. It is a conglomerate represented by students from every academic organization.

“Hindi lang ito nag-oopen ang doors ng enrichment ng kaalaman, but it opens the doors for intimacy and pagkilala ng iba’t ibang students from different courses.” CSSD Vice President Gabby Valera explained.

The federation’s ideal purpose is to make CSSD students competitive in terms of personal academic achievements and be active in extracurricular activities.

“We are deeply elated by the fact by our dean that CSSD are eager to connect with the students amidst the pandemic. Magandang initiative [ito], we welcome it. ” CSSD Vice President said.

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines started it’s 2020-2021 academic year despite the coronavirus pandemic. As a result, classes are either held online or by modular means.

“This is the perfect time to unite [the students of CSSD] and work together in harmony. I, myself want to work with all the heads of the CSSD [organizations].” he added.

Notable attendees of the consultation meeting were the dean Dr. Raul Roland Sebastian, CSSD Student Council President, Bianca Gamboa and CSSD Student Council Vice President and Chairperson of Academic Affairs Committee, Gabby Valera.

Other attendees of the consultation were representatives from PUP Psychology Students Association, PUP Sociology Society, Economic Research Society, PUP Samahan ng mga Mag-aaral ng Kasaysayan, Junior Cooperators Association, Bukluran sa Sikolohiyang Pilipino, and student-led publications of Trident and Oikonomus Nexus.