The 2025 iSITE National Conference, held on June 13–14, 2025 at Boracay, Philippines, gathered IT educators, engineers, and professionals across the nation, championing innovation, ethics, global standards, and educational transformation in the computing field. With the theme centered on “Advancing Quality in Computing Education and Professional Practice through Collaboration, Innovation, and Policy Alignment,” the event addressed the essence of several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Demonstrating strong academic leadership and collaboration, Engr. Denmel Paul S. Saadvedra, Program Chair of Computer Engineering and Mechatronics Engineering from the College of Engineering and Architecture actively joined the conference, reflecting UC-CEA’s steadfast commitment to integrating technology into transformative learning experiences.
The first day set the tone with powerful messages from key leaders, reinforcing the need for academic-industry collaboration and the ethical imperative in computing. Dr. Rogelio T. Galera Jr.’s keynote highlighted CHED’s focus on quality assurance—aligning directly with SDG 4, which seeks inclusive and equitable quality education. Sessions on responsible AI and ethics addressed the increasing need for fairness and transparency in emerging technologies, resonating with SDG 16, which emphasizes strong institutions, justice, and accountability.
Highlights such as the Seoul Accord and the Washington Accord discussions emphasized the importance of global accreditation in boosting Filipino professionals’ competitiveness, in line with SDG 8, which promotes sustained, inclusive economic growth and decent work for all. The introduction of microcredentials and the integration of OBE with digital platforms showcased innovative strategies in curriculum delivery and assessment, supporting SDG 9, which advocates for resilient infrastructure, inclusive industrialization, and innovation.
The conference also touched on educational equity and flexibility through HyFlex learning and digital integration—efforts that contribute to SDG 10, by reducing educational disparities and increasing access for diverse learners. Notably, sessions on cybersecurity, wellness, and emerging tech trends reminded attendees that ethical innovation must be rooted in proactive security, mental well-being, and adaptive professional development.
The iSITE 2025 experience was not just intellectually enriching but also purpose-driven, showing that computing education must continuously evolve—technically, ethically, and globally. With a shared commitment to lifelong learning and responsible digital citizenship, the conference embodied the intersection of technology, humanity, and sustainability.
