Davao del Sur State College joined the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) 2023 Annual Convention, with the theme “Fostering Innovation and Collaboration in SUCs Towards Increasing Competitiveness and Sustainability”, at the SMX Convention Center Manila, Pasay City on August 9-11, 2023.

College President Dr. Augie E. Fuentes led a delegation from the DSSC to attend the convention along with other SUC presidents and their delegates, PASUC National Officers, Keynote Speakers, Distinguished Guests, and PASUC Regional Chairs.

Over the course of three days, the convention focused on exploring different approaches to enhance SUC programs and initiatives. The discussions emphasized the importance of Innovation, Knowledge Creation, Intellectual Capital, Strategic Partnership, and Multi-level Collaboration in increasing competitiveness and sustainability. Distinguished speakers from government and partner agencies addressed the concerns of attendees from various SUCs.

Internationalization of state universities and colleges was also discussed, where knowledge partnerships and collaborative transnational education were seen as ways to improve international research productivity and utilize resources efficiently. The Department of Science and Technology also presented their 2023 to 2028 agenda focusing on priority research areas like drug discovery, diagnostics, and disaster risk reduction.

PASUC now aims to prioritize collaboration with both government and private agencies. One of their key initiatives is the establishment of KIST Park in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), with the assistance of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA). Strong emphasis placed on research and innovation, and PASUC intends to partner with the National Innovation Council (NIC) to further advance these areas. Additionally, PASUC is committed to promoting SUC development through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and providing support for higher education through the implementation of EDCOM 2. Furthermore, they aim to implement the revised Operational Standards and Guidelines for SUCs (OSS) and create a leadership training academy as part of their comprehensive strategy.

⯑/infocredits to Assi. Prof Jayson R. Pucot