A Needs Assessment on Establishing an IT Student Organization for Skills Development and Representation

Abstract ―​

This study presents a comprehensive needs assessment (NA) to investigate the perceived necessity for establishing a student organization dedicated to Information Technology (IT) skills development and campus representation among Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) students at the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) Peñaranda Off-Campus. Given the rapidly evolving industry, student organizations are increasingly recognized as vital non-academic avenues for improving soft skills, which are essential for career success. Using a descriptive quantitative approach, 284 BSIT students were surveyed to explore their awareness of IT career opportunities, interest in organizational participation, and existing challenges in professional skill enhancement. Results indicate a strong demand for more structured, co-curricular learning platforms, mentorship programs, and formal student representation. Findings highlighted key challenges for implementation, such as potential scheduling conflicts and budget constraints. The study offers recommendations that emphasize securing institutional support, developing a clear governance structure, and conducting continuous evaluation to ensure the organization's sustainability and alignment with academic and contemporary industry demands. This NA provides an empirical foundation for policy development aimed at empowering IT students in their holistic professional growth and active campus engagement.