NwSSU Food Tech Student Bags Awards in International Summer Course in Indonesia

Posted on by Joseph Renor Obrino

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) participated in the 2025 International and National Summer Course hosted by Universitas Brawijaya in Malang, Indonesia. Designed as a hybrid program combining online and onsite sessions, the course runs from June to August 2025, with the onsite sessions held from June 22 to 27. The program revolved around the theme “Innovative Agricultural Technologies for Future Food Security, Green Industry, and Environmental Sustainability,” delving into forward-looking frameworks and emerging technologies aimed at redefining sustainability within the agro-industrial landscape. Representing NwSSU was Jonathan M. Peru, a third-year Bachelor of Science in Food Technology student, accompanied by a BSFT faculty member – Ms. Maria Joana T. Nicolas. Their participation marked the implementation of the institutional collaboration between NwSSU and Universitas Brawijaya, reflecting a shared commitment to cross-border academic mobility and scholarly exchange. Mr. Peru made a remarkable impression during the summer course, hailed as the Champion for the Best International Group Presenter and earned the second place in the Artefact (Dance Competition). His commendable performance showcased not only individual aptitude but also the university’s growing imprint in international academic excellence. This engagement highlighted NwSSU’s commitment to global linkages and preparing students to be proactive contributors in solving global challenges, particularly in food security and environmental sustainability. By engaging in such initiatives, the university continues to build a strong presence in international academic communities.

Innovation in Action: NwSSU’s SIPAG Project Approved by NEDA for 2024 Innovation Grant

Posted on by Raffy Ticong

Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) has secured a significant milestone after its project, “SIPAG of Vegetable Farms: Solar-Powered Irrigation and BioPesticide Application Grid with Mobile Control,” was selected as one of the 13 recipients of the 2024 Innovation Grants from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). This groundbreaking project was conceptualized and proposed by Mr. Felix John M. Refamonte, a faculty member of the College of Agriculture and Technology, who spearheaded the development of the SIPAG initiative.  SIPAG, which stands for Solar-Powered Irrigation and BioPesticide Application Grid, revolutionizes agricultural practices by integrating renewable energy and modern technology. The project focuses on utilizing solar-powered irrigation systems to provide a continuous and cost-effective water supply for vegetable farms. By harnessing solar energy, farmers can reduce their reliance on traditional fuel-powered machinery, decreasing operational costs and promoting environmental sustainability.  The initiative also emphasizes the application of biopesticides, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. This approach enhances crop protection and production while maintaining soil health and biodiversity. Furthermore, the integration of mobile control systems enables farmers to monitor and manage irrigation and pest control processes remotely, increasing efficiency and productivity.  The approval of SIPAG aligns with the goals outlined in the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document 2023-2032, showcasing Filipino ingenuity in addressing local agricultural challenges. By adopting innovative solutions, NWSSU aims to enhance food security, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and promote sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.  The SIPAG initiative represents a significant step towards modernizing Philippine agriculture by integrating renewable energy and smart technologies. NWSSU’s SIPAG project is expected to serve as a model for sustainable agriculture, demonstrating how technology-driven solutions can transform traditional farming practices for a greener and more efficient future.