Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) was recognized as one of the top-performing Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the 2025 Board Examinations and for achieving 100% Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) – Negros Island Region during its 1st Consultative Conference held today, January 27, 2026, at the NORSU Main Campus Sports and Cultural Complex. CHED Regional Director Raul C. Alvarez, Jr. recognized NORSU’s achievement during his presentation on the Strategic Direction, Key Updates, Transformative Priorities, and the Way Forward of CHED Negros Island Region.

RD Alvarez declared that 2026 marks the formal operation of the CHED Negros Island Regional Office. He also called for the cooperation of the 89 member institutions in the region to help facilitate efficient service delivery.

Among CHED’s missions for 2026–2027 are: (1) the construction of the CHEDRO Regional Office in 2027; (2) restoration of program integrity through 100% compliance by 2026; (3) increased internationalization of HEIs by 2026; (4) full compliance with CMO No. 15, series of 2019; and (5) timely release of grants and scholarship funds.

“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success,” RD Alvarez emphasized. CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis delivered her virtual inspirational message during the conference.

An open forum followed after the presentations.

Participants in the Consultative Conference included officials and representatives from various state universities and colleges in the region.