The Research, Innovation, Development, and Extension (RIDE) of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) held its RIDE Congress 2024 on October 18, 2024 at NORSU Sports and Cultural Complex with the theme "R.I.D.E: Driving Excellence, Inspiring Change."

The RIDE Congress is an annual activity coordinated by the RIDE Office led by Dr. Edwin F. Romano, Jr., the Vice President for RIDE. This activity showcases the unique and creative ideas of NORSU's faculty and students in terms of research, innovation, and extension.

In his opening remarks, Romano expressed that this year's theme is a reminder that NORSU's pursuit of excellence is not a solitary endeavor but a journey to embark together, fueled by curiosity, collaboration, and the unwavering belief to make a difference.

In line with the RIDE Office objectives to empower NORSUnians to turn research ideas into reality, the RIDE Congress aims to provide faculty and students an avenue to pursue research proposals, fostering continuous improvement in research technology and sustainability.

"As the only state university in the province of Negros Oriental, NORSU bears a unique responsibility to champion positive change, extending our impact from the local community to the global stage," Romano added.

According to Dr. Johann Heinrich P. Malongo, the Director for Innovation and Technology Support Office, this activity encourages collaboration between disciplines, recognizing societal challenges that require holistic approaches. It also facilitates networking between academic and industry stakeholders, opening opportunities for partnerships and research commercialization.

"We will explore groundbreaking ideas, blessed promises, and discuss the latest research & community development text, whether through pioneering technological advancement or transformative extension programs," said Dr. Guilbert Nicanor A. Atillo, the University Extension Director.

Atillo also reassured that each session of the presentation inspires creativity and fosters solutions that can address real-world challenges.

The presentation of infographics and project pitching of the faculty and students was held simultaneously at the following three different venues: ST AVR, CNPAHS AVR, and CIT AVR. Each proponent was only given 3 minutes to present their projects.