The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) and Bachelor of Science in Information Management (BSIM) degree programs were first offered in June 1998 under the Institute of Mass Communications (now College of Mass Communications.
During the University’s 75th Commencement Exercises on March 22, 2002, it produced its pioneer batch of graduates: 27 BSIT graduates and 18 BSIM graduates. By virtue of BOR Resolution No. 34, s. 2002, the Institute of Information and Communications Technology was established. Hence, effective 1st semester of AY 2002-2003, the BSIT and BSIM degree programs were offered under the IICT. The IICT Building (fronting the Rizal Hall) is now on its completion, and will be inaugurated prior to the opening of 2nd Semester, AY 2006-2007.
Information and Communications Technology (ICT) has penetrated the core of societal and individual lives. It is now at the fulcrum of the balance of international trade, employment levels, business, and politics. Its developments are changing the course of all other technologies. Today, ICT has become less of a choice and more of a requirement for individuals and societies concerned with competitiveness in the international scene.
The ICT sector provides the necessary infrastructure and support systems for attaining the development goals of the Philippines – which is gradually transforming the country into a Newly Industrializing Country Status (STAND), computer software, a vital component of ICT, is identified as the country’s export winners. In the National Technology Information Plan, strategies for harnessing ICT for national development have been enumerated. These include the formulation of policies and standards to improve productivity and economic performance of the Philippines. Also given attention are the legitimate interests of Filipino entrepreneurs to engage in business of providing ICT products and services.
The primary role of ICT education is to develop professionals who shall be able to meet the growing manpower demand by expanding the ICT industries in the country.
Being the lead institution of higher learning in Western Visayas, and in response to the major thrust to the Commission on Higher Education for a more relevant, technology-oriented, and globally competitive graduates, the West Visayas State University, through the Institute of Information and Communications offers ICT courses to cater to qualified and deserving students in the region.