DOrSU Explores IP Higher Education Opportunities for Caraga
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) held a community meeting in Sitio Sangab, Brgy. Pichon, Caraga, on July 30, 2024. The event aimed to expand higher education opportunities for Indigenous Peoples (IP) and drew considerable attention from a variety of stakeholders.
The event, which drew 84 participants, including key stakeholders from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and local community members, was the highlight of the day. Dr. Aldrin A. Darilag, CHED Commissioner and Chair of DOrSU’s Board of Regents, underlined the importance of expanding educational opportunities for IP communities. The conversation focused on potential new academic offerings, such as short-term courses and bachelor’s degrees designed specifically for IP students. Commissioner Darilag advised that DOrSU seek accreditation under the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP), which recognizes work experience as part of academic qualifications. Furthermore, the development of certification programs for people with extensive experience but limited formal education was advocated.
The consultation resulted in several key agreements, including the issuance of a resolution formalizing community consent for the proposed higher education initiatives, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize the community-DOrSU partnership, and the formation of a Technical Working Group to develop detailed plans for implementing the new educational programs.
The celebration also recognized the accomplishments of DOrSU Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) takers from Batch 2023.
Additionally, DOrSU President Dr. Roy G. Ponce met with Eng. Mark Anthony Mocam on behalf of Mayor Ronie S. Osnan.
Accompanying President Ponce were Laarni Pasion, the Focal Person on IP Engagement, along with Vice President Dr. Roy M. Padilla, Philip Yncierto, Assistant Professor Roland
Dalagan, Dr. Helina Jean Dupa, and other university staff. The NCIP was represented by Atty. James Ian A. Generale, the OIC NCIP Provincial Officer, along with Mr. Edwin Padilla, the Free and Prior Informed Consent Focal Person, and Mr. Abdel Hussen Rodiz.
The consultation also included key members from the local community, such as the Kabubayan group and the Limpong ng mga Mangkatdong (Council of Elders/Leaders), with representatives from various sitios of CADT 01 led by Tribal Chieftain Christine Banugan-Bontoc. Additionally, Sangab National High School teachers, led by Mr. Bevian M. Taupan, along with local police and barangay officials headed by Brgy. Captain Thelma Tanding, attended the event. Ms. Norma Gonos, who facilitated the consultation, was also present. (DOrSU PIO)
