Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) recently took significant strides in advancing research and innovation through its participation in the Higher Education Research and Innovation (HERI) Project under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of the Philippines. HERI aims to enhance the research and innovation capacities of higher education institutions (HEIs), focusing on technology development, improved research outputs, and strengthened university collaboration.

As part of its initiatives, Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) Project 3, titled "Food Product Innovation and Commercialization" under the HERI program, led by Dr. Tulip F. Lopez, Dean of the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (CTHM), conducted a visit to the Mag-uumang Katawhan sa Malaiba Multi-purpose Cooperative (MAGKASAMA) in Barangay Malaiba, Canlaon City, on November 14, 2024. The cooperative is well-known for its flagship product, squash noodles, which hold significant potential for further innovation and development.

Dr. Lopez was joined by key university figures, including Dr. Johann Heinrich P. Malongo, Director of the University Innovation and Technology Support Office (ITSO); Dr. Pirl I. Enquilino, Assistant Dean of CTHM; Prof. Geraldine S. Quinones, Chair of University Research Ethics; and Prof. Glennen Y. Zamora, CTHM Faculty. Together, they explored opportunities for product diversification—a strategy that broadens a business's offerings to include new goods or services. This approach aims to reduce risks from market saturation, enhance revenue streams, and ensure sustainable growth.

The visit marks the initial step toward a future collaboration between NORSU and MAGKASAMA, with a shared focus on food product innovation and commercialization. This partnership aligns with HERI's goal of addressing regional challenges through enhanced science and technology infrastructure, training, and collaborative research.

NORSU's involvement in HERI underscores its commitment to fostering impactful research and empowering local communities through sustainable and innovative initiatives.