SLSU Hosts 2nd Provincial STI Council Meeting for a Sustainable Southern Leyte
Last July 4, 2025, Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) successfully hosted the 2nd Provincial Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Council Meeting at the RIES Training Hall. The gathering brought together key movers from national government agencies, state universities and colleges, the provincial government, media, and private sector partners all united in shaping a future powered by science, technology, and community-driven solutions.
The meeting aimed to reinforce collaboration among stakeholders and align development efforts under a shared goal: building a more resilient, inclusive, and innovation-led Southern Leyte.
Leading the event was Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services of SLSU, who set the tone for the day’s collaborative and forward-thinking discussions. The program officially opened with warm welcome remarks from Dr. Constantino Medilo, Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs, who spoke on behalf of University President Dr. Jude A. Duarte, emphasizing the university's unwavering commitment to innovation and inclusive development.
A key highlight was the unveiling of SLSU’s innovative research projects and homegrown technologies, aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4: Quality Education; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. These solutions, grounded in local relevance and scientific rigor, are now being considered for adoption by LGUs, national agencies, and private sector collaborators to solve pressing community challenges.
Pushing the boundaries of innovation, Engr. Noel Ajoc, Regional Director of DOST-CARAGA, introduced the DOST Artificial Intelligence Roadmap, highlighting how AI can revolutionize governance, boost local industries, and enhance disaster resilience supporting SDG 9 and SDG 13: Climate Action. Meanwhile, Ms. Marilyn Radam, Assistant Regional Director of DOST Region VIII, shared updates on the regional R&D agenda, emphasizing the pivotal role of innovation in building adaptive and future-ready communities.
SLSU’s commitment to inclusive, grassroots development also took center stage. Ms. Alma Arnejo, BS Hospitality Management Program Head, presented a Community Tourism Program aimed at promoting sustainable tourism and boosting local livelihoods contributing to SDG 8 and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
Engr. Khorina O. Aguilar, Director for Research and Innovation, also showcased SLSU’s latest research milestones and externally funded projects, reinforcing the university’s leadership in fostering region-wide impact through science and innovation.
The event also featured a dynamic Innovation Exhibit, where SLSU’s seven research and development centers were showcased: Affiliated Renewable Energy Center (AREC); Center for Organic and Natural Food Research (ConFor); Geographic Information System Technology Center (GIS-TC); Center for Research and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Development (CReMSMED); Bioresource Production Technology Center (BioProtec); Smallholder Horticulture and Agroforestry Research and Extension Center (SHARE); Center for Access to Rural Education (CARE). These centers serve as innovation engines, delivering practical, science-based solutions tailored to the local context of Southern Leyte and beyond.
As the meeting concluded, it became clear: SLSU is not just an academic institution, it’s a regional innovation engine. Through collaborative partnerships, research excellence, and community-focused initiatives, the university continues to play a vital role in realizing a smarter, greener, and more inclusive Southern Leyte.
