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Represented by Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice-President for Academic Affairs, Northwest Samar State University joined the 11th Asia Technological University Network (ATU-Net) Board Meeting 2023 at Rizqun International Hotel, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam on October 23, 2023.   This annual congregation mainly highlights an overview of the 2023 ATU-Net achievements together with the 2024 planning, ATU-Net Consortium Collaboration Exchange/Signing Ceremony for new member institutions, and Networking High Tea.

NwSSU officials led by University President, Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo paid courtesy visits to members of the House of Representatives namely First District of Samar Representative, Hon. Stephen James T. Tan, Second District of Samar Representative, Hon. Reynolds Michael T. Tan, and 4PS Party List and Minority Leader, Hon. Marcelino C. Libanan yesterday, September 20, 2023, at the Batasang Pambansa Complex, Quezon City. In the talks, Dr. Pecayo discussed the updates on the University’s overall performance and the future programs and projects for 2024. The congressmen in turn expressed their support to sustain the momentum of the institution’s progress.

Dr. Carl E. Balita had a lunch meeting with the University representatives led by University President, Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo today, September 6, 2023. The meeting resulted in Dr. Balita’s pledges to boost the university’s collaboration thrusts in instruction, research, and internationalization. The future partnership goals include an international research conference, establishment of an international partnership with an education institution in Thailand, and the establishment of a review program in NwSSU for Teacher Education graduates.Dr. Balita also informed Dr. Pecayo that the University is set to receive an award before the year ends for being one of the outstanding resilient universities during and after the pandemic. Also included in the meeting were the University Financial Management Office, Mr. Gil Leovigildo A. Ancheta, College Deans Armando and Jannel C. Alviola, and Dr. Balita’s team.

The Philippine Department of Tourism-Beijing Office represented by Tourism Councilor, Dr. Erwin F. Balane hosted a virtual meeting with Beifang Automotive Education Group, represented by its General Manager, Lilly Han and NwSSU led by Dr. Benjamin L. Pecayo to initiate preparations in forging a future vocational partnership agreement, today September 6 via zoom.The meeting encapsulates the discussions and presentations of Beifang Automotive Group and Northwest Samar State University. Through live overview, the Beifang Automotive Group in China offers research and development of automotive teaching aids, curriculum system design, full textbook compilation, supporting online courses, free teacher training, production and sales integration of production and education services, and focuses on the professional construction needs of vocational colleges. Meanwhile, NwSSU University Profile and Program presenter, Dr. Lorelie F. Tangaran oriented the attendees on the goals and programs of the university. The future partnership will focus on faculty and student training in automotive repair and maintenance through cross-learning activities, on-the-job training, and laboratory development. Future collaboration in other fields such as hospitality management, information technology, education, and engineering was also eyed. The participants agreed for drafting of MOA/MOU for review of both parties.

August 30, 2023 – Global higher education analyst, and the compiler of the QS World University Rankings, Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Intelligence Unit, informed the NwSSU management that it has completed its evaluation and rated the University as a 3-Star university. The QS Stars rating system aims to give prospective students an additional tool to use when choosing a university, providing deeper insights into individual institutions. NwSSU was rated with star performance ratings in the following categories: Teaching (5 stars), Inclusiveness (5 stars), Academic Development (4 stars), Employability (4 stars), Facilities (4 stars), Specialist Criteria – Education & Training (3 stars), and Social Responsibility (3 stars). With an overall 3-Star rating, NwSSU is now included in the roster of universities that are well-recognized nationally, have begun to attract international recognition, maintain a reputable level of teaching, and their graduates are attractive to employers. Institutions awarded with the said rating show potential in achieving international education standards and undertake complex research activities, experimenting with pedagogical teaching. The performance of such institutions is considered “Good” in the QS Stars rating system.Source: QS World University Ranking

With the theme- “ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth”, NwSSU joins the Nationwide simultaneous Flag-Raising Ceremony and ASEAN Month 2023 Kick-Off Activity today, August 7, 2023, at 7:30 a.m. After the flag ceremony, the faculty and staff in their Filipino-inspired attires proceeded to Business Development Center for viewing of the live stream via CHED’s Social Media Channels.

University top management officials led by OIC – University President, Dr. Ramil S. Catamora and representatives from the Provincial Local Government of Samar led by Provincial PESO Manager, Mr. John Michael Cristobal held a meeting today, July 24 at the University Hotel and Restaurant to discuss the implementation of agreed programs and activities. These are the Affirmative Action Plan for students belonging to the ‘poorest of the poor’ class, enrollment of PLGU employees into the Special Academic Program, and the activities in line with the celebration of Samar Day which are the Showdown and Parade of Festivals, and the Governor’s Night. Present in the meeting were Provincial Youth Development Officer, Jhunlie E. Escala, SIRAK Kabataan Focal Person, Ysabel Karla Aquino, Provincial Tourism Officer, Marvin R. Piczon, Human Resource Management Officer IV, Evan Kristine R. Siazon, NwSSU Vice President for Administrative Affairs, Engr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Private Secretary to the University President, Maria Lourdes Mae V. Billate, Financial Management Officer, Gil Leovigildo A. Ancheta, SAS Director, Dr. Myra L. Pilpa, and SAP Director, Dr. Eliza V. Gamusa.

UNICEF and the Center for Women’s Studies Foundation, Inc. of the University of the Philippines in partnership with Northwest Samar State University as local academe partner in the implementation of the project “Development and Learning Loss Recovery: Strengthening Systems for Capacity Building of Child Development Workers (CDWs) and Child Development Teachers (CDTs)” conducted a 2-day rollout training for Child Development Workers, Child Development Teachers, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officers, and PS ECCD focal persons of the LGUs of Catarman, Mondragon, and Lope de Vega last May 11-12, 2023 at the LIGA Building and Kaella Restaurant, Catarman, Northern Samar. The rollout training which was on its 2nd phase was attended by one hundred fifteen participants.

Wendell L. Ultra, a faculty member of the BS Agriculture program of NwSSU’s College of Agriculture and Technology, presented a research paper during the 2nd International Conference for Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) with the theme “Advancing Partnership in Climate Action for Sustainable Development in the ASEAN Region” at the Amari Don Muang Airport Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand, on May 29–June 2, 2023. Ultra’s study, “Valorized Agricultural Wastes as Soil Amendments to Reduce Heavy Metal Accumulation in Rice,” highlights the importance of utilizing and recycling locally available agricultural wastes as a means to reduce the accumulation of heavy metals in crops that is rapidly accelerated by the effects of climate change. The said research is supported by DOST-PCAARRD and, together with the technical expertise of Balik-Scientist Fellow, Dr. Venecio U. Ultra Jr.The participation of the institution in the said conference also aims to create linkages and partnerships with other SUCs for possible collaboration on research projects in the future.