Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) presented its accomplishment report before the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) today, June 23, during the Exit Conference of the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Development Approach – Phase II Project held at the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Conference Room. The project, with a total cost of ₱2,091,500.00, is funded by DOST.
The CEST Project aims to enhance agricultural sustainability and improve the socio-economic status of target communities in Negros Oriental, particularly through goat dairy production in the Zamboanguita Goat Farmers Cooperators and salt-making initiatives in the Sycip Plantation Farmworkers Agrarian Cooperative.
NORSU CEST Project Leader and Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Merivic G. Catada, presented the overall implementation of the project, highlighting key components such as silage production, goat dairy production, and goat milk feeding. Other aspects discussed included the project timeline, training activities conducted, major accomplishments, financial reports, and challenges encountered during implementation, such as delays in equipment procurement, unstable weather conditions, and initial resistance to new technologies.
DOST Negros Island Region (NIR) Officer-in-Charge Engr. Joel O. Legaspi also discussed potential future collaborations between DOST and NORSU. Four initiatives were introduced, focusing on (1) Solar PV, (2) Energy Audit, (3) Weighing Scale Calibration, and (4) Food Safety.
Among those who attended the Exit Conference were University President Dr. Noel Marjon E. Yasi, Vice President for Research, Innovation, Development and Extension Dr. Edwin F. Romano Jr., Supply Office Representative Alan Alagarmo, University Chief Accountant Maurice Anaver B. Dordado, CPA, and Director for University Extension and Community Services Dr. Guilbert Nicanor A. Atillo.
Mr. John Paul P. Ubal, representative from DOST, was also present during the conference.
