Developing Sustainable University-Community Partnerships: A Needs Assessment of Community Organizations and Alignment to Vision, Mission, Goals and Objectives

This study addressed the need for an evidence-based and participatory foundation to strengthen university–community partnerships in Bokod, Benguet, particularly for Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)-guided collaboration between Benguet State University–Bokod (BSU–Bokod) and local organizations. The study considered possible partnerships in relation to the university’s Vision, Mission, Goals, and Objectives (VMGO), core values, and graduate attributes. Specifically, it aimed to (1) identify community organizations in Bokod that are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and recognized by the Sangguniang Bayan, (2) determine and prioritize their needs, challenges, and areas requiring support, and (3) identify priority areas for collaboration through BSU–Bokod’s instruction, research, extension, and production functions. The study employed a descriptive needs assessment design using a qualitative-descriptive approach supported by documentary profiling. Data were gathered through documentary analysis of accredited organizations, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and validation with selected university administrators. Findings identified 27 officially recognized community organizations in Bokod and revealed four major thematic priority areas: livelihood and economic enhancement, cultural stewardship and community identity, governance and organizational strengthening, and well-being, discipline, and family support mechanisms. The results also showed that registered organizations were generally ready for structured collaboration, while unregistered groups and the emerging parents’ association needed support in formal organization, leadership development, and registration processes. The study concludes that a participatory needs assessment provides a strong basis for responsive, inclusive, and sustainable university–community partnerships and offers practical guidance for designing MOA-guided, Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)-aligned, and values-based programs in BSU–Bokod.