Establishment of an Integrated Agro-Industrial Special Economic Zone on Knowledge, Innovation, Science and Technology (KIST) Model in Isabela State University (ISU), Cabagan Campus, Philippines

Abstract

The existence of a Special Economic Zone in the universities will improve the knowledge and skills of graduates and will create job opportunities for them. Isabela State University Cabagan Campus possesses a potential for KIST development due to its vast land holdings and strategic location. This study aimed to identify the policies and standards of establishing KIST Special Economic Zones to come up with a master plan that follows SEZ standards. Through stakeholder meetings, a proper consultation was made on the magnitude of the development which resulted in the inclusion of desired parks among the residents in the master plan. The survey showed that development shall consist of mid-rise buildings since this is the most preferred type of development among the respondents with mixed-use development for economic benefit. Personal interviews with ecozone development experts were very informative on the restrictions and strategies that may affect the design of the development like the provision of green architecture. The existence of the ISU Cabagan Agro-industrial Center is very important to sustain the needs of the agricultural research and production of the Province of Isabela. It can be concluded that the acceptability of the establishment of KIST ecozone development is highly acceptable from the respondents. All development plans shall follow its carrying capacity to avoid urban sprawl along the university
campuses. This study could be submitted to the SEZ Director of the University for the application of a KIST ecozone development of ISU Cabagan to PEZA.