The Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) College of Arts and Sciences and Graduate School, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd)-Division of Dumaguete, signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) today, July 4, 2026, for the implementation of the program, "Strengthening Science Innovations for Science Teachers."

The MOA is an extension program of the university that aims to develop the practical skills and competencies of science teachers, particularly in conducting laboratory experiments, carrying out research, formulating technology-based research, gathering and analyzing data, and developing instructional materials.

The program includes capacity-building workshops, hands-on laboratory training sessions, and seminars on emerging trends in science education, sustainable biomaterials, and applied biotechnology. It will also facilitate mentoring, coaching, and collaborative research engagements between NORSU science faculty and participating teachers. Public secondary school science teachers in Dumaguete City will benefit from this program. Leading the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement were NORSU President Dr. Noel Marjon E. Yasi and DepEd-Dumaguete Schools Division Superintendent, Dr. Edmark Ian L. Cabio.

The signing ceremony was witnessed and attended by NORSU Vice President for Research Development and Extension, Edwin F. Romano Jr.; College of Arts and Sciences Dean Dr. Priscilla S. Cielo; University Extension and Community Services Director Dr. Guilbert Nicanor Atillo; Project Leader Dr. Venus B. Kinamot; Geology and Physics Department Chair Mr. Michael VincentTubog; Dr. Johann Heinrich Malonggo; and IPTBM Unit Head and Ethics Committee Chairperson Ms. Geraldine Quiñones.

Also in attendance were Dr. Juditha Mapue, DepEd Dumaguete City Assistant Schools Division Superintendent; Mr. Ruel Torres, Science Education Coordinator, and other members of the faculty the natural science departments.

In his message of commitment, President Yasi assured DepEd of NORSU's steadfast partnership, while Dr. Cabio expressed DepEd's commitment and support for the program.