SLSU hosts ICITE 2025 Training on the Development of Research Centers
Southern Leyte State University successfully held the ICITE 2025: Training on the Development of Research Centers on December 9, 2025, at the RIES Training Hall. The event gathered administrators, faculty researchers, and staff to strengthen the university’s research capabilities and align future initiatives with national and global priorities.
The program opened with the welcome and inspirational message delivered by Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, Vice-President for Research, Innovation, and Extension. Dr. Sy emphasized the crucial role of research centers in elevating SLSU’s contributions to knowledge creation, innovation, and sustainable development. She encouraged the participants to proactively engage in building a strong research ecosystem that supports both institutional growth and community impact.
A major highlight of the training was the presentation of Dr. Pen Chung Chen from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, who served as the main resource person. Dr. Chen provided an in-depth discussion on strategic frameworks for establishing and managing research centers, offering global perspectives and best practices that SLSU can adopt. He underscored the importance of having clear research directions, sustainable funding models, strong partnerships, and a culture of interdisciplinary.
Dr. Chen also emphasized that SLSU must strengthen its focus on agriculture, given its mandate, geographical location, and the region’s socio-economic landscape. He noted that developing research centers dedicated to agricultural innovation, food security, and climate resilience will allow the university to address pressing community needs while enhancing its research visibility both locally and internationally.
The training continued with interactive discussions, an open forum, and reflections on how SLSU can strategically position itself as a leader in research-driven agricultural development. Participants expressed optimism that the insights gained will guide the formulation of stronger, more responsive research center proposals in the coming months.
The event concluded with the awarding of a certificate to Dr. Chen and a closing message reaffirming SLSU’s commitment to advancing research excellence.
