Southern Leyte State University Hosts Re-Echo of 2025 DOST Cluster Call Conference
Southern Leyte State University successfully conducted the "Re-Echo on 2025 DOST Cluster Call Conference" on January 22, 2025, via Google Meet. The virtual event brought together students, researchers, and faculty members mentoring capstone and thesis projects. It provided a valuable platform to explore the Department of Science and Technology's (DOST) programs, priorities, and funding opportunities, empowering participants to secure support for their innovative research initiatives. This aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure and Goal 4: Quality Education.
The program commenced at 9:00 AM with a prayer, followed by a warm Welcome Message from Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, Vice-President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services. She emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration in research and innovation to address societal challenges. Dr. Sy also highlighted the role of funding agencies like DOST in fostering academic and professional growth, encouraging participants to leverage these opportunities for impactful research.
Dr. Dewoowoogen P. Baclayon, Vice-President for Administration and Finance, and Dr. Marie Khul C. Langub, Vice-President for Students and Auxiliary Services, delivered inspiring Words of Encouragement. They stressed the critical role of research and innovation in solving global issues, emphasizing the importance of addressing the challenges posed by climate change, public health, and sustainable development in alignment with Goal 13: Climate Action and Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being.
The Message of Support was delivered by Dr. Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno III, NRCP RD Leader, who underscored the importance of regional collaboration in advancing meaningful research. He encouraged attendees to take full advantage of DOST's initiatives to drive impactful projects that support sustainable economic growth and innovation, in line with Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. He concluded his message with enthusiasm, expressing his excitement to visit the university again soon.
A key segment of the event was the Presentation of DOST Priorities, led by Engr. Khorina O. Aguilar, Director of Research & Innovation, and Ms. Jannie Fleur Oraño, Head of GIS-TC. Their session provided an in-depth overview of DOST programs, including:
- The DOST-GIA Program
- High-Impact Programs and Big Tickets
- Funding initiatives through DOST-NRCP, DOST-PCHRD, DOST-PCAARRD, and DOST-PCIEERD
This segment equipped participants with the knowledge to align their research projects with DOST’s priorities, encouraging them to focus on projects that directly contribute to the SDGs, particularly in areas such as sustainable agriculture (Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals), and innovation in education (Goals 4).
The event concluded with a Closing Message from Dr. Constantino G. Medilo Jr., Vice-President for Academic Affairs. He reaffirmed the university’s dedication to fostering innovation and collaboration. Dr. Medilo urged the participants to actively contribute to the university's vision of becoming a leading hub for groundbreaking research and development that addresses global challenges.
The event was a resounding success. It empowered students, researchers, and faculty members with the insights and tools necessary to advance their research efforts. The conference highlighted Southern Leyte State University's unwavering commitment to bridging academic knowledge and practical applications, advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and addressing real-world challenges effectively.
