𝗗𝗢𝗿𝗦𝗨 𝗘𝘆𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺

Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) is being considered as the host for the International School of Ecology Program (ISEP), an initiative led by the KLTER Network to address global ecological challenges through education and research. This proposal follows the recent visit of Dr. Ohseok Kwon and Dr. Youngson Kim from Korea, alongside Dr. Victor B. Amoroso, Professor Emeritus, and 2023 Outstanding Young Scientist Dr. Fulgent P. Coritico from Central Mindanao University. The delegation met with DOrSU officials from January 13 to 14 to discuss the program’s objectives and potential implementation.

The planned school program aims to train young scientists in ecological research, focusing on ecosystem resilience, biodiversity preservation, and climate change adaptation. By leveraging DOrSU’s proximity to the Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the university is uniquely positioned to serve as a center for advancing ecological studies in the region.

ISEP aims to promote research into maintaining ecosystem services and protecting biodiversity while cultivating a greater understanding of healthy ecosystems. Conferences, workshops, summer camps, and site visits are some of the programs’ activities to give young scientists practical experience.

Dr. Roy G. Ponce, President of DOrSU, said the initiative aligns with the university’s vision for Regenerative Futures, which focuses on restoring and maintaining ecological and social foundations for thriving communities, as well as its dedication to academic excellence.

Details of the initiative are being finalized through ongoing conversations with funding agencies, local government entities, and foreign partners. (DOrSU PIO)