Geothermal Engineering Education in the Philippines: The Bicol University Experience

Abstract

The undergraduate degree program in geothermal engineering offered by the Bicol University in June 2000 was in response to the need for development of geothermal resources rn the Bicol Region, especially its indirecf use. The new engineering degree program has been formulated in c/ose consultation with industry,e nd-usersa nd other related institutionsT. he course aimed to provide students with comprehensive knowledgea nd sk//s essenfiaI for properly conducting geotherma l activities.

Among the sfudies conducted by the pioneer graduates were innovative proposals on the agroindustrial use of geothermal heat, utilization of waste silica,a nd environmentasl fudies.T he indirecfu ses of geothermal energy partly depend upon the presence of specialisfs capable of conducting such research and developmnet sfudies.

A major component of the program was an lndustry Academe Linkage Program between the PNOCEnergy Development Corporation and Bicol University through a Memorandum of Agreement to develop manpower resources of the region, and to upgrade engineering education to make it relevant and responsiyeto the demandso f nationald evelopment.

A re-evaluation of the course resulted to freezing of the coursea nd a recommendationto offer geothermal engineering as part of a post-baccalaureate course where specialized theoretical work and practical training is required.