Saint Louis University (SLU) concluded the three-day 434th ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance (AUN-QA) Programme Assessment today, 06 February 2025, at the Fr. Francis Gevers Hall, SLU Main Campus.
As a first for SLU, this preliminary assessment marked a pivotal moment in the university’s commitment to academic excellence and quality assurance, particularly on its four programs namely: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Medical Laboratory Science, BS in Pharmacy, BS in Nursing, and BS in Radiologic Technology.
SLU awaits the final report and evaluation based on the recent assessment results detailing strengths and areas for improvement.
The AUN-QA assessors, led by Chief Assessor Prem Anand M. Arjunan, meticulously evaluated the four School of Nursing Allied Health and Biological Sciences (SONAHBS) programs through interviews with administrators, academic staff, students, alumni, and other stakeholders as well as through program-level tours.
In the presentation of the preliminary findings, the assessors commended SONAHBS for its strengths according to the assessment criteria. These include notable performances in the licensure examinations, the alignment of the programs with national and institutional standards, and the provision of adequate and efficient facilities and classrooms. These factors contribute significantly to a positive and productive atmosphere for students and faculty, creating an optimal learning environment for all its students and staff.
The AUN-QA Chief Assessor, Mr. Arjunan concluded the presentations by acknowledging SLU’s dedication to quality education and proactive approach to aligning with ASEAN and global standards. He reiterated that the journey towards excellence is ongoing and that the insights gained from this assessment will serve as a roadmap for future enhancements.
“Thank you for giving us the chance to be part of your journey in elevating your programs and bringing improvements to your institution. We hope that our reports will be vital in uplifting your operations and also enhancing the quality of the programs in the future,” Mr. Arjunan said.
Furthermore, in his closing remarks, Mr. Arjunan highlighted, “ It may seem like the end of the process, but in reality, this is just the beginning. So the time that we have spent together in assessing a program, inspecting the quality and reflecting on how to improve it, has been merely just setting up the journey to elevating these programs to new heights.”
In response, Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD, SLU PResident, expressed gratitude to the assessors for their valuable insights and constructive feedback. “This commitment to rigorous international assessment ensures that our programs remain relevant, competitive, and reflective of the diverse perspectives that enrich our academic community,” he mentioned.
Fr. Sales then thanked the AUN-QA and its assessors and noted, “[T]he findings and recommendations generated through this assessment will be taken to heart as we strive to enhance our reputation as a leading university in providing quality Catholic Education.”
The AUN-QA assessment model recognizes the importance of quality in higher education, and the need to develop a holistic quality assurance system to raise academic standards and enhance education, research and service among universities.
For Programme Level Assessment, key criteria include Expected Learning Outcomes, Programme Structure and Content, Teaching and Learning Approach, Student Assessment, Academic Staff, Student Support Services, Facilities, and Infrastructure, and Output and Outcomes.
The AUN-QA assessment emphasizes that quality assurance begins with the institution’s goals and mission and ends with the achievements that satisfy stakeholder needs.
The recently-concluded AUN-QA visit affirms its commitment to continued quality assurance rooted on United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 17 (Partnership for the Goals). (Article written by Kyla Moreno – UIO Intern | Photos by Emmanuel Gregorio, UIO)
