Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the Kapit-Bisig Sa Mawacat Association (KASAMA) strengthened their commitment to community-driven growth with a landmark Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing on November 14, 2025, at the NwSSU Board Room. Led by Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo, University President, and Mrs. Dionesia T. Mayran, KASAMA President, the collaboration institutes the extension project “Strategic and Sustainability Planning for KASAMA,” designed to empower the Brgy. Mawacat community through innovative livelihood strategies. The partnership aligns with NwSSU’s mandate to advance education, research, and extension services while supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
NwSSU’s extension efforts, through the College of Management, in Brgy. Mawacat emerged as a model of community-led development, focusing on poverty alleviation, skills training, and agricultural innovation. The 2022 assessment of KASAMA highlighted the need for enhanced strategic planning to ensure long-term sustainability, stimulating NwSSU’s renewed pledge to support the association.
The MOA emphasizes a shared vision fostering equitable, innovative, and sustainable partnerships that connects academic expertise with community needs. With Ms. Florabel C. Canaman, NwSSU Project Leader, Mr. Esteban C. Sabar Jr., COM Extension Coordinator, Dr. Francis C. Toleza, and KASAMA members including Mrs. Ma. Linda M. Judloman, the project aims to refine cooperative strategies, enhance member capacities, and enhance public sector partnerships.