by the Philippine Institute of Industrial Engineers, SEA
In a collaborative effort between the Saint Louis University Industrial Engineering (SLU IE) Department, the Philippine Institute of Industrial Engineers (PIIE) – SLU Student Chapter, and the Rotary Club of Baguio, Sto. Tomas National High School (STNHS) underwent an extension program to enhance the quality of education by implementing the 5S methodology on 15 September 2023.
The 5S methodology, originating from Japanese terms that stand for Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain, has been widely applied in manufacturing and business sectors for its organizational benefits. This systematic approach to organization and cleanliness is now finding its way into the educational realm, with STNHS leading the way.
Recognizing the need for improved learning environments, STNHS embraced the 5S methodology to create well-organized, comfortable, clutter-free, and easily navigable classroom environments. To support this initiative, the SLU IE Department and PIIE-SLU SC organized an extension program in partnership with the Rotary Club of Baguio.
The program, aptly titled “Developing and Implementing 5S at Sto. Tomas National High School,” is a multi-phase project that began in October 2022. Now in its third phase, the project focuses on the “Shine” aspect of the 5S methodology. This phase aims to revamp classrooms and facilities, setting new standards for utilizing them.
Further, the program’s budget was carefully allocated, utilizing funds from PIIE SLU SC to cover transportation expenses and provide snacks for participants. Additionally, the program featured various activities, including assessments, presentations, and the distribution of feedback questionnaires.
With its initiation, the extension program’s goals are to:
- establish a baseline rating for the current 5S practice at STNHS, to serve as basis for Needs Assessment of the program
- to impart knowledge, training and skills to teachers and students, to enable them to practice and sustain 5S methodology in their work areas
- to significantly improve the level of 5S practice in the selected classrooms of STNHS through implementation of the proposed 5S program.
