In a significant move to advance smart agriculture and foster international collaboration, Romblon State University and the Dalhousie University – Faculty of Agriculture inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last July 19, 2024, at Dalhousie University’s Halifax Campus. The MOU was signed by RSU President, Dr. Merian P. Catajay Mani and Mr. Matt Hebb, Vice President of the Government and Global Relations at Dalhousie University.
Witnessing the momentous occasion were Congressman Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona, Representative of the Lone District of Romblon, and Her Excellency Maria Andrelita S. Austria, Ambassador of the Philippines to Canada, along with other representatives from RSU, Dalhousie University, and the Nova Scotia – Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.
This MOU marks a new chapter in the ongoing collaboration between RSU and Dalhousie University, focusing initially on the field of smart agriculture. The agreement outlines a commitment from both institutions to cooperate in the development of smart agriculture initiatives at RSU and the province of Romblon at large.
This strategic partnership not only strengthens the academic ties between RSU and Dalhousie, but also represents a significant milestone following RSU’s prior engagement with Canadian Higher Education Institutions at the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) Conference held in Vancouver last November 2023. This initial engagement was made possible through the initiative of the Commission on Higher Education – International Affairs Service, led by Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, as well as Ms. Angel Cachuela, Trade Commissioner of Embassy of Canada – Manila, who facilitated that matching process that led to RSU and Dalhousie’s first meeting. This mission would have also not been possible without the unwavering support of CHED Chairmain, Dr. J. Prospero “Popoy” E. De Vera III.
In its commitment to academic excellence, internationalization, and sustainability, RSU and Dalhousie are set to embark on a collaborative journey that promises to bring innovation, sustainability, and growth to the field of agriculture and fisheries, ultimately benefiting communities in both the Romblon and Nova Scotia.
Romblon State University has taken a significant step towards internationalization with its successful partnership mission to Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Agriculture in Nova Scotia, Canada last July 13-22, 2024, wherein they benchmarked smart agriculture practices with the main objective of establishing RSU as a center of excellence in the field of Agriculture.
The delegation was composed of Hon. Congressman Eleandro Jesus “Budoy” F. Madrona; Hon. Mayor Lisette M. Arboleda; RSU President Merian P. Catajay Mani; VP Tomas T. Faminial; VP Emelyn F. Montoya; VP Eddie G. Fetalvero; Atty. Glenn Niño M. Sartillo; Dr. Gianinna Elaine M. Labicane, Mr. Jayson Reeves C. Mani; Mr. JRden F. Fadallan; Dr. Alfredo F. Fortu Jr., Dean of the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Environmental Sciences; Dr. Rey P. Rasgo, RSU Sta. Fe Campus Director; Mr. Elisha Danne D. Gabinete, a BS Agriculture student and Ms. Danielle S. Geguillan, a BS Fisheries student.
On the first day of the partnership mission, the delegation met with key officials from the Dalhousie University – Faculty of Agriculture to discuss international cooperation, technical assistance services, student and faculty mobility and exchange, and joint programming, setting the stage for a collaborative and mutually beneficial partnership between the two institutions.
The officials RSU engaged with during this initial meeting were: • Dr. Gefu Wang-Pruski, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture • Dr. Dian Patterson, Associate Dean Academic • Dr. Miriam Gordon, Assistant Dean International • Dr. Balakrishnan Prithiviraj, Assistant Vice President, Government & Global Relations • Mike McConkey, Project and Finance Manager, Farm; • Lana Bos, Manager, International; and, • David Parks, Projects & Partnerships Coordinator, International.
The delegation also engaged in a series of meetings and visits to Dalhousie University’s state-of-the-art agricultural facilities. They explored the latest advancements in precision farming, sustainable agriculture, and digital tools for farm management, allowing them to gain valuable insights into the implementation of smart agriculture techniques, which are poised to revolutionize farming practices not only within RSU, but at the province of Romblon as a whole.
Dr. Emelyn F. Montoya, RSU’s Vice President for Academic Affairs and Hon. Mayor Lisette M. Arboleda of the Municipality of Looc, Romblon, also visited Dalhousie University’s Halifax Campus to benchmark the University’s Nursing program in alignment with RSU’s intention to set up its own allied medicine programs in the near future, thereby expanding its academic offerings and addressing healthcare needs in Romblon.
The delegation also visited Dalhousie University’s industry partners, including Scotian Gold, Luckett Vineyards, Dykeview Farm, and Cornwallis Farm. These visits provided valuable insights into not only the integration of smart technologies in various agricultural settings, but Dal’s unique contributions to its partners within the local community.
Luckett Vineyards with Member of Parliament (MP) Kody Blois, Chair of the Standing Committee on Agriculture
The delegation also had the privilege of meeting several prominent figures, including Member of Parliament (MP) Kody Blois, Chair of the Standing Committee on Agriculture; and MP Stephen Douglas Ellis of Cumberland—Colchester.
The delegation was also graciously welcomed in Nova Scotia’s Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, where they had the privilege of engaging with Her Excellency Maria Andrelita S. Austria, Ambassador of the Philippines to Canada. Also in this courtesy meeting were Ms. Myca Magnolia Maog Fischer, Deputy Head of Mission of the Philippines Embassy; Ms. Connie Lacson, Honorary Consul of the Philippines in Nova Scotia; Ms. Tracey Taweel, Executive Deputy Minister; Ryan Grant, Deputy Minister Advanced Education; and Kathlene Farrell, Department of Intergovernmental Affairs.
The mission culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between RSU and the Dalhousie University- Faculty of Agriculture, formalizing their partnership and paving the way for future collaborations between the institutions. The MOU outlines plans for joint projects, faculty and student exchanges, and the development of curriculum modules focused on smart agriculture that are responsive to the pressing needs of the industry.
This partnership mission was generously funded by the Office of Congressman Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona — a testament to his unwavering support for quality education as the “Father of Romblon State University”, as well as his commitment to ensure food security and sustainability in the province of Romblon through cutting-edge agricultural practices. His commitment to fostering academic excellence and sustainable development in the region has been instrumental in making this mission a reality.
This initiative is a direct result of RSU’s previous engagement with Canadian Higher Education Institutions during the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) conference held in Vancouver last November 2023. Earlier this year, representatives from Dalhousie University visited RSU to gain an extensive understanding of RSU’s agricultural context and identify key areas of partnership between the institutions.
This successful partnership mission marks a new chapter in RSU’s journey towards internationalization, academic excellence and community empowerment. As RSU moves forward with its vision of becoming a smart agriculture hub in the region, the knowledge and partnerships gained from this mission leverages RSU to implement innovative agricultural practices, enhance academic programs, and contribute to the sustainable development of Romblon’s agricultural sector and in promotion of the province’s agriecotourism.
In a significant move to advance smart agriculture and foster international collaboration, Romblon State University and the Dalhousie University – Faculty of Agriculture inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last July 19, 2024, at Dalhousie University’s Halifax Campus. The MOU was signed by RSU President, Dr. Merian P. Catajay Mani and Mr. Matt Hebb, Vice President of the Government and Global Relations at Dalhousie University.
Witnessing the momentous occasion were Congressman Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona, Representative of the Lone District of Romblon, and Her Excellency Maria Andrelita S. Austria, Ambassador of the Philippines to Canada, along with other representatives from RSU, Dalhousie University, and the Nova Scotia – Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.
This MOU marks a new chapter in the ongoing collaboration between RSU and Dalhousie University, focusing initially on the field of smart agriculture. The agreement outlines a commitment from both institutions to cooperate in the development of smart agriculture initiatives at RSU and the province of Romblon at large.
This strategic partnership not only strengthens the academic ties between RSU and Dalhousie, but also represents a significant milestone following RSU’s prior engagement with Canadian Higher Education Institutions at the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) Conference held in Vancouver last November 2023. This initial engagement was made possible through the initiative of the Commission on Higher Education – International Affairs Service, led by Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, as well as Ms. Angel Cachuela, Trade Commissioner of Embassy of Canada – Manila, who facilitated that matching process that led to RSU and Dalhousie’s first meeting. This mission would have also not been possible without the unwavering support of CHED Chairmain, Dr. J. Prospero “Popoy” E. De Vera III.
In its commitment to academic excellence, internationalization, and sustainability, RSU and Dalhousie are set to embark on a collaborative journey that promises to bring innovation, sustainability, and growth to the field of agriculture and fisheries, ultimately benefiting communities in both the Romblon and Nova Scotia.
Congratulations Romblon State University’s YAGMAO TEAM, for being declared as Champion in the Inter-University Competition.
After a tabulation error in inter-university competition, our very own 𝖸𝖠𝖦𝖬𝖠𝖮 𝖳𝖤𝖠𝖬 was declared as CHAMPIONS during the Machine Design Summit 2024 held last Saturday, April 20, 2024.
Thank you so much for exhibiting exceptional skills and determination throughout the competition. The RSU Community rejoices in this well-deserved recognition!
Check out the updated ranking of the competition:
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗼𝗻: The Yagmao (Romblon State University)
1𝘀𝘁 𝗥𝘂𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗨𝗽: Team VMUF (Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation Incorporation)
2𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝘂𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗨𝗽: Team siPV=MaaRT (Romblon State University)
Dr. Jimmy G. Catanes RSU held a warm meet and greet session today, April 12, 2024, for the newly appointed CHED MIMAROPA Regional Director, Dr. Jimmy G. Catanes.
Dr. Catanes, along with Chief Education Specialist Engr. Edgar C. Cepe and Education Supervisor II Lesełe O. Condeza, was welcomed by RSU, spearheaded by the University President, Dr. Merian P. Catajay-Mani, University Vice Presidents Dr. Tomas T. Faminial (VPAF), Dr. Eddie G. Fetalvero (VPREDI), and Chief Administrative Officer, Atty. Glenn Niño M. Sartillo.
University directors, unit heads, deans, permanent employees, and students were also present to extend a warm welcome to the Regional Director.
Following the meet and greet, Dr. Catanes, Engr. Cepe, and Ms. Condeza engaged in a dialogue session with RSU office directors and college deans regarding TES quality education and internationalization efforts. Dr. Catanes’ visit is viewed as a milestone for RSU, marking the beginning of a potentially transformative chapter. His leadership and expertise are expected to infuse the university with renewed enthusiasm and provide valuable guidance as RSU strives for continued excellence in education and its pursuit of internationalization. With Dr. Catanes’ support, RSU can solidify its position as a leading institution in the MIMAROPA region.
Romblon State University has long been recognized for its academic achievements, but a deeper look reveals a driving force that sets it apart: a continuous pursuit of excellence. RSU recently received accreditation for several academic programs from the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) during an evaluation held on October 16-19, 2023.
The accredited programs for RSU Main Campus include:
Level 4 – Phase 1 Accredited
– Bachelor of Elementary Education
– Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.
Level 3 – Phase 1 Accredited
– Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
– Bachelor of Science in Accountancy
– Bachelor of Science in Biology
– Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Financial Management
– Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management.
This accomplishment reflects RSU’s continuous journey toward growth and excellence. The university’s dedication to providing high-quality education is evident in its commitment to meeting the standards set by AACCUP. The granted accreditations hold validity from November 1, 2023, to October 31, 2024. Congratulations on this outstanding achievement, RSUvians!
March 25, 2024 — Congratulations to Liu Kzean Fabregas, one of the winners of the 2024 Capture the Heart in Health Research Photo Contest!
We are thrilled to celebrate Liu Kzean Fabregas, a Senior High School student at RSU Laboratory Science High School, for winning the “People’s Choice Awars” of the 2024 Capture the Heart in Health Research Photo Contest (General Public Category) organized by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD) in its 42nd Anniversary Celebration.
His entry titled “Kasiyahan sa Paglubog ng Araw”, capturing a group of friends enjoying a swim at the beach as the sun sets, beautifully portrays a moment of joy and connection.
Liu Kzean’s win is a testament that RSU is a haven for talent and creativity. We are also grateful to Dr. Merian P. Catajay-Mani, university president, and Mr. Aljay Marc C. Patiam, LSHS Director, for their continued support in nurturing RSUvian talents. Congratulations once again, Liu Kzean!
Romblon State University has made a significant stride in the launching of Global Citizenship Education (GCED) under the theme “Navigating the Global Landscape: Fostering Global Citizenship for Sustainable Development.”
Gathered at the RSU Main Campus Audio Visual Room on March 15, 2024, were the RSU Top Officials led by University President Merian P. Catajay-Mani, University Directors and Unit heads, Deans and Institute Directors, Program Chairperson, and GCED Faculty and Student advocates from RSU main and satellite campuses, pledged their commitment to promoting global citizenship through education.
Some Local Government units such as LGU San Andres, San Jose, and Odiongan participated by sending representatives, while Hon. Riza G. PAMORADA, Local Chief Executive of Alcantara attended virtually.
Moreover, Hon. Jose R. Riano, Governor of Romblon, and Dr. Bert J. Tuga, President of Philippine Normal University, extend their congratulatory messages via audio-visual presentations.
In her lecture, Dr. Rowena Raton Hibanada, Director of the GCED Cooperation Centre-Philippines, introduced the program’s significance in the Philippine context. She commended RSU and the province of Romblon for being the first entire province in the MIMAROPA region to participate in the GCED initiative.
Also, Prof. Bryan Dayuta, Director of Philippine Normal University – Linkages and International Office, discussed strengthening partnerships for global citizenship through internationalization, while Dr. Rebecca Rosario O. Bercasio, Focal Person-GCED Regional Hub for Bicol Region, elaborated on mainstreaming GCED into the curriculum.
Further, the event honors champions of Global Citizenship Education, including the Institute of Information and Technology Student Organization, RSU Main Campus’s National Service Training Program office, Hope in a Box – RSU chapter, and Ms. Rhea M. Arucio, a faculty member from the College of Arts and Sciences.
Overall, the successful launching event was made possible under the supervision of Dr. Mark G. Calimbo with the team from the Office of the Dean of Instruction and the GCED Advocates from different colleges, campuses, and institutes.
GCED aligns with the major goal for education of the United Nations. This goal is part of a broader plan for improving the Education 2030 Agenda and Framework for Action, notably Target 4.7 of the Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education.
RSU is one in fostering partnerships and mainstreaming GCED into the curriculum to equip students on how to be responsible and compassionate members of society.
March 6, 2024 —Congratulations RSUvians for passing the February 2024 Criminology Licensure Examination.
We commend your hard work and dedication in this remarkable feat.
Congratulations also to the Institute of Criminal Justice Education of San Agustin Campus for producing a new breed of Registered Criminologists and for surmounting the national passing rate of 48% with the passing rate of 51.81% for first takers.
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“RSU is a Rising State University.”
