The UP Internal Academic Assessment and Development System (iAADS) was developed by a System Committee created by Former UP President Francisco Nemenzo in December of 1999. It had the initial name of Academic Assessment System (AAS), and after pilot testing, numerous consultations and orientations, and revisions and retests, it was finally renamed as iAADS. This is an academic assessment of the core academic functions of the various departments and institutes of the entire UP System as part of the university’s commitment to academic excellence. Its primary objective is to foster internal academic self-assessment of each department or institution. The core academic functions include teaching, research and creative works, extension, and public service. 

The Department of Home Economics Education, as stated in its Vision and Mission, is dedicated to developing home economists who empower Filipino families to improve their well-being through quality instruction, research, and extension programs. Evident in the department’s track records is their steady improvement and commitment to embodying academic excellence. With almost a 50-point difference from 2015 to 2024, the department steadily stepped up to make good on its commitment to improve not only its academic performance but the entirety of the department.

Mandatory changes to its curricula for all degrees were employed, with respect to the developing instructional materials for newly instituted courses. Publication is continuous in local and international journals, including the students’ papers developed closely with the department’s faculty. Support is not only felt by the students as they pursue their studies under the HE program, but faculty and staff development plans are also making good progress as the department continues to support their academic undertakings (i.e., PhD studies, training, etc.). Infrastructure and laboratory improvement is also a part of the department’s plans to provide quality and a holistic learning environment for their HE students. Income generation is geared towards extension programs to help under-served communities around UP Diliman through workshops, training, and seminars. The specifics of their plans are all improved through consistent assessment and improvement efforts. The excellent working relationship among the members of the Department is one of the major reasons for this achievement. Though a small department, everyone works together on common goals that uplift one another and serve their constituents. 

This article could not encompass the breadth and depth of the department’s improvements and milestones. From having a stagnant improvement ten years ago, the department soared and reached greater heights than ever before. However, there is still much to be done, especially in relation to infrastructure improvement to better serve their stakeholders. Therefore, driven by their dedication to bring forth the values that UP embodies, the Department will continue to strive for dangal at husay para sa bayan. 

*Ranks as of January 31, 2025, which was the extended deadline of UP for iAADS submission.