The Office of the Vice President for Research Development and Extension (OVPRDE) conducted a three-day workshop on the crafting of the Laguna State Polytechnic University (LSPU) Research and Extension Agenda for 2024-2028 at the University Hostel Function Hall, LSPU-Sta. Cruz Campus, Nov 6-7 and 9. 

The LSPU was able to craft the proposal of six research agenda and eight thrusts and priorities (T&P) covering poverty alleviation; innovation development; sustainable utilization and management of biodiversity and indigenous resources; environmental rehabilitation and conservation, especially of the Laguna Lake; policy, governance, and management of institutions; and university impact and financial sustainability. 

The proposed research agenda and T&P were aligned with the Harmonized National Research and Development Agenda (HNRDA) and the Calabarzon Research and Development Plan (RDP) 2023-2028, leading the university research, extension, and innovations initiatives towards the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The first two days focused on the formulation workshop among university key officials while the third day was spent on the consultation with stakeholders. 

During the consultation meeting, Dr. Robert C. Agatep, Vice President for Research Development and Extension (VRPDE), shared with the stakeholders the challenges that the university considered in the crafting of the proposal. 

“There are a lot of issues that need to be addressed,” said Dr. Agatep. “When it comes to economic issues in the region [this includes] job creation and increase of income.” He shared that these are some of the concerns that formed part of the priorities. In line with this, he encouraged the stakeholders to share their ideas to improve further the proposed agenda. 

Dr. Mario R. Briones, University President, echoed this encouragement, telling the stakeholders that “we will shape together a brighter future for LSPU and the community.”

President Briones also shared his vision for LSPU to become a “globally recognized knowledge-generating” institution.

The first day covered the presentation of rationale by Dr. Agatep; SDGs by Dr. Aimee Concepcion C. Chavez, Chairperson for Extension and Training Services (ETS) at LSPU-Siniloan Campus; National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document (NIASD) by Rachell C. Gallano, Chairperson for ETS at LSPU-Los Banos Campus; HNRDA by Mary Ann L. Barile, Project Manager of the Agri-aqua Technology Business Incubation (ATBI) hub; review of the Research and Development (R&D) Agenda by Dr. Delon A. Ching, Director for R&D; and ETS Agenda by A/Prof. Angela A. Reginaldo, Director for ETS. Meanwhile, the second day went over the identification and presentation of T&P and RDE by the colleges. 

Dr. Ray Samuel G. Grecalda served as the moderator of the three-day event.