A Noble Commitment: Christalyn DR. Chiong, the young and active Chief Engineer and College Dean of the College of Maritime Education at Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology.

In the bustling heart of South Korea, the Korea Institute of Maritime and Fisheries Technology (KIMFT) alongside the Ministry of Ocean and Fisheries (MOF) are hosting its prestigious “Train the Trainer” program, a three-month program which will conclude on September 2024. It is a beacon of excellence for educators and professionals in the maritime and fisheries sectors. Among the esteemed participants is a figure whose presence symbolized dedication and selflessness—Chief Engineer Christalyn DR. Chiong, College Dean of the College of Maritime Education at Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST).

Dean Chiong has always been a pillar of strength and guidance at ZSCMST, steering the institution with unwavering commitment. Her contributions significantly elevated the college’s standing in maritime education, earning her the respect and admiration of colleagues and students alike. It was no surprise that she was invited to the KIMFT program, a testament to her expertise and leadership.

However, this golden opportunity came at a challenging time. July 26th, a date marked on her calendar with immense personal significance, will also be the day of her own graduation ceremony. After years of rigorous study and research, she was to receive her Doctorate degree in Maritime Education—a moment of personal triumph and a celebration of her relentless pursuit of knowledge.

Faced with a heavy and difficult decision, Dean Chiong chose to participate in the “Train the Trainer” program in South Korea instead of attending her graduation. Her decision was not merely a personal sacrifice; it demonstrated her unwavering commitment to her students, colleagues, and the future of maritime education.

On the morning of July 26th, while her name will be called in the graduation hall from thousands of miles away, Dean Chiong will be deeply engrossed in a workshop session at KIMFT.

From the beginning of the program, she tackled each challenge with the same vigor and enthusiasm that she brought to her work. Her participation will be more than symbolic; it will be a practical investment in the future of her college, ensuring that the latest advancements and methodologies in maritime training would be brought back to ZSCMST.

The weeks that she is spending at KIMFT will be transformative. Dean Chiong will return to ZSCMST with a wealth of knowledge and innovative strategies that would soon be integrated into the college’s curriculum. Her experience at the “Train the Trainer” program will infuse new energy into her work, and her enthusiasm will be infectious.

Dean Chiong’s story spread beyond the confines of her college. It resonated in academic circles and among professionals in the maritime industry, illustrating the powerful impact of selfless leadership. Her decision to prioritize the needs of her institution over her personal milestone became a defining moment, not just for her, but for all who aspired to lead with integrity and purpose.

In the annals of ZSCMST, her story is told with reverence and pride. It serves as a beacon for future generations, reminding them that true success is measured not by personal accolades, but by the lasting positive impact one leaves on their community. Dean Chiong’s noble commitment to her college and her field is a legacy that continues to inspire—a testament to the enduring power of selfless dedication.