DOrSU Launches Inaugural Innovation and Extension Summit
On August 1-2, 2024, Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) held its inaugural Innovation and Extension (IE) Summit. The event, coinciding with the University’s 2nd Annual Scientific Review (UASR), provided a vibrant platform for showcasing DOrSU’s pioneering innovations and community extension initiatives.
In the plenary session, Associate Professor Ryan Mulit Abenoja emphasized the crucial role of farmer adoption in the successful implementation of innovative solutions. Highlighting that technology, no matter how inventive and novel, is ineffective without user acceptance, he stressed the need for strategies to bridge the gap between research and practice. President Emeritus Dr. Edito B. Sumile, Provincial Agriculturist of Davao Oriental, provided a comprehensive overview of the province’s agricultural landscape in his presentation on the State of Agriculture in Davao Oriental. He emphasized the pivotal role of small-scale farmers in the agricultural sector and stressed the need for targeted support to enhance their productivity and resilience.
One of the summit’s highlights was the KATIGAMAN Community Conversations: A Stakeholders’ Convergence, which celebrated the invaluable contributions of over 20 partner agencies and organizations to DOrSU’s research, innovation, and extension programs. Honorees included the 4H Young Economic Builders Association, Amihan sa Dahican, Association of Sustainable Livelihood Program Beneficiaries of Mamali, Barangay Local Government Unit of Lawigan, City Planning and Development Office, Mati City Health Office, City Environment and Natural Resources Office XI, Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office XI, Department of Education – City of Mati Division, Department of Education – Davao Oriental Division, DICT – Davao Oriental Provincial Office, Department of Trade and Industry – Davao Oriental Provincial Office, Diocese of Mati, Happy Fish Kids, Langoyon Beach Resort, Lubdon Organic Farmers, LGU San Isidro, Lucatan Integrated School, Mati Water Sports, Macambol Lindog People’s Organization, Inc., Mama Earth Foundation, rrreefs, Provincial Tourism Office – Davao Oriental, and Provincial Agriculture Office (PAGRO) – Davao Oriental.
Another key feature was the KATIGAMAN Community Conversations: A Farmers’ and Fisherfolks’ Forum, co-organized with the Provincial Agriculture Office of Davao Oriental. This event brought together farmers, fisherfolk, and other stakeholders to share best practices, discuss challenges, and explore opportunities for regenerative agricultural and fisheries development.
The poster and video exhibit offered a detailed view of DOrSU’s extension projects and their impact on the community. The videos featured testimonials from beneficiaries and external partners, highlighting the success of these initiatives.
Dr. Mary Fil M. Bauyot, Director for Extension, emphasized that the summit aims to not only recognize external partners and foster collaboration but also to deepen engagement with community stakeholders. By facilitating open dialogue, the summit provides a platform for exploring opportunities to contribute to and co-create regenerative communities.
Additionally, the Start-up Founders’ Forum ignited innovation and entrepreneurship by bringing together MSMEs, food vendors, innovators, students, faculty, and other stakeholders. The dynamic space fostered collaboration and inspired new business ventures. Asst. Prof. Venson B. Sarita, Director for Innovation, expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming turnout and enthusiasm of the participants, emphasizing the forum’s role in nurturing a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship within the university and the wider community.
As DOrSU forges ahead in championing regenerative futures, the IE Summit underscores the university’s commitment to strengthening innovation and extension as foundational pillars for developing sustainable societies.
