Abstract
This study aimed to determine the partnership between State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the prime region of the Philippines and its correlation with Bachelor of Industrial Technology (BIT) graduates' competencies in the industry. The partnership focused on curriculum and employment dimensions. The researcher-developed questionnaires were validated by experts and administered through Google Forms. The methodology included descriptive correlation type using statistical tools such as percentages, weighted mean, Z test, and Pearson r. The respondents comprised 92 technology faculty/coordinators and 52 industry supervisors from the selected region. The study revealed that the partnership between SUCs and industries was highly extensive in curriculum development and employment opportunities for Bachelor of Industrial Technology (BIT) graduates.The study revealed that there was no significant difference in perceptions between faculty members and industry representatives regarding the effectiveness of the SUC-Industry Partnership in both curriculum development and graduate employment within the BIT program. The employability competencies of BIT graduates were assessed to be high, covering skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, initiative/creativity, planning, learning, and technology skills. Furthermore, faculty members and industry supervisors' perceptions of these competencies were similar. The study identified a significant correlation between the extent of SUC-Industry partnership in curriculum alignment and graduate employment and the demonstrated competencies of BIT graduates. As a result of these findings, a curriculum enhancement was proposed for the BIT program to ensure better alignment with industry requirements.
