DOrSU Charts Academic, Administrative Direction at Governing Board Meeting
The Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) Board of Regents (BOR) approved key academic and administrative measures at its Second Quarter Regular Meeting held on July 23 at Davao del Norte State College in Panabo City.
Chaired by Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Desiderio R. Apag III, the Board acted on proposals involving academic program expansion, faculty development, wider access to higher education, and other matters supporting the University’s institutional growth.
Among the Board’s major actions was the approval of the proposed Master of Science in Biology major in Tropical Biodiversity, subject to compliance with CHED requirements. The program is expected to expand DOrSU’s graduate offerings beginning Academic Year 2027–2028 once all regulatory requirements are met.
The Board also approved the endorsement of faculty members who will pursue graduate studies under the CHED Scholarships for Staff and Instructors’ Knowledge Advancement Program (SIKAP), CHED’s flagship initiative that supports teaching and non-teaching personnel of higher education institutions in pursuing advanced graduate studies in priority disciplines.
Efforts to widen access to higher education also formed part of the Board’s agenda, including discussions on the opening of the DOrSU Lupon External Classes in the Municipality of Lupon, Davao Oriental. Previously approved by the Board, the external classes are expected to begin this semester and will initially offer four undergraduate programs: Bachelor of Science in Development Communication, Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management, Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, and Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English.
Another highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the University’s newly issued Certificates of Program Compliance (COPCs) from CHED for three graduate programs: the Doctor of Philosophy in Biology major in Biodiversity, the Doctor of Education major in Educational Leadership Management, and the Master in Business Administration (Academic Track). The certifications affirm that the programs meet CHED’s standards and are authorized for implementation.
The Board also welcomed two new sectoral representatives following their oath-taking during the meeting. Atty. John Rey R. Codilla, President of the DOrSU Alumni Association, officially assumed office as Alumni Regent, while Hon. Loui Jay Rhean C. Ponce, President of the DOrSU Student Council, took his oath as Student Regent, strengthening alumni and student representation in the University’s highest policymaking body.
Also present were DOrSU President Dr. Roy G. Ponce, Vice Chair of the Board of Regents; Dr. Anthony C. Sales, Regional Director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) XI; Dr. Priscilla R. Sonido, Regional Director of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) XI; Dr. Genelyn C. Lim, Faculty Regent; and Hon. Ervincarlo A. Alcano, Private Sector Representative.
As DOrSU’s highest governing body, the Board of Regents exercises policy-making and oversight functions over the University’s academic, administrative, and fiscal affairs, acting on matters that shape the institution’s strategic direction and long-term development.
