The University will formalize several partnership agreements with government agencies, educational institutions, local government units, and community stakeholders through a Memoranda Signing Ceremony aimed at expanding collaboration in environmental conservation, engineering education, community development, and basic education.
Among the agreements to be formalized is a partnership under the United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia (UBCHEA)-funded project, Enhancing Nature Conservation Education and Values Systems in Coastal Wetlands, through the Center for Research and Engagement. The initiative focuses on the Negros Occidental Coastal Wetlands Conservation Area (NOCWCA) and brings together USLS, local government units (LGUs), and community partners to advance research, environmental education, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable local development.
USLS will also enter into a partnership with the Department of Energy (DOE)–Visayas Field Office through the College of Engineering. The collaboration seeks to strengthen academic-industry engagement by providing students with internship, on-the-job training, and industry immersion opportunities, while creating avenues for faculty development, research collaboration, and energy audit initiatives.
Another agreement will be signed with the Department of Education – Schools Division of Bacolod through the Balayan Social Development Center and College of Education. The partnership aims to support faculty and student development through the joint planning and implementation of professional development programs, needs assessments, research projects, and extension initiatives that will benefit local schools and communities.
In addition, USLS will formalize partnerships with various institutions and community organizations to further strengthen its community development, extension, and research programs. These collaborations will focus on identifying community needs and developing responsive initiatives that support youth, children, families, and other underserved sectors.
Through these collaborative efforts, USLS continues to harness its academic expertise and resources to address community needs, strengthen institutional partnerships, and contribute to regional development.