MSC completes University Futures Masterclass

Marinduque State College (MSC) Marinduque Futures Laboratory Research Center (MFLRC) concluded its Think, Speak, Write, and Act Futures Thinking Capacity Development series from January 29 to 31. MSC attended the Write and Act leg of the said series, a comprehensive training program designed to equip leaders and stakeholders in higher education institutions with the necessary tools and strategies to navigate the evolving academe landscape and produce a project proposal for MSC’s institution priority futures agenda, at Microtel by Wyndham UP Technohub, Quezon City.

Future thinking and foresight involve exploring potential future scenarios and considering uncertainties, and emerging trends. Amidst the VUCA environment, Marinduque State College will proactively shape its strategies, programs, and collaborations to maximize its impact on the development of its island province.

The first day of the University Futures Masterclass had Dr. Lily encouraging MSC participants to adopt a proactive, forward-thinking mindset, enabling them to navigate future complexities with greater adaptability and resilience. The first session is about the Foresight and Futures Thinking, a briefer, and refining the focal agenda for higher education.

Then, the next session “Scanning the Landscape and Navigating New Horizons,” was handled by Ms. Celine Grace Abella. The module allowed the learners to explore trends, emerging issues, and transformational drivers of change in higher education institutions. MSC participants were able to understand the external environment (social, technological, economic, and political dimensions), involving both current and future environments to identify potential disruptions, opportunities, and transformative shifts of their chosen topic.

The last session, “Blueprints of the Future through Scenario Development” was facilitated by Dr. Dr. Reginald Ugaddan. He discussed the four-quadrant scenario building framework to help participants visualize potential future trajectories of their chosen topic.

MSC participants were able to practice scenario development, distinguish scenario archetypes, improve risk management, apply scenarios strategically, and cultivate a long-term vision.

The three-day activity is endorsed by the Philippine Futures Thinking Society (PhilFutures), in collaboration with the Center for Leadership Communication and Governance Inc. (CLCGi).

Participants will be equipped to identify research priorities, develop scenarios, anticipate challenges, and transform foresight into tangible initiatives through project proposals. (PR)