BukSU, SLSU sign MOA to co-host 2026 international Extension conference

Bukidnon State University (BukSU), Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), and partner institutions officially formalized their collaboration for the 3rd International Conference on Transformative Extension and Community Outreach (ICTECO) 2026 during a Virtual Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing Ceremony via Zoom on September 7, 2026. The agreement establishes BukSU as a co-host alongside lead host SLSU, reinforcing their joint commitment to translating research, innovation, and extension into tangible community impact.

CTECO 2026 will take place on November 18–20, 2026, at the Southern Leyte State University Main Campus under the theme, “Building Sustainable and Resilient Communities through Science-Based and Digitally Transformative Extension Innovations.” It serves as a global platform for researchers, educators, practitioners, and industry leaders to collaborate, align strategies, and unlock opportunities for impactful research utilization.

Representing BukSU, University President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol delivered the institution’s message of commitment as a co-host. The agreement formalizes academic, scholarly, and organizational cooperation for ICTECO 2026, with SLSU serving as the lead host.

For BukSU, the co-hosting role accelerates the transfer of academic knowledge into real-world action. Faculty and extension workers gain a broader platform to showcase their innovations and build collaborative networks, while partner communities benefit from direct access to scientific expertise, technology, and evidence-based solutions designed to strengthen livelihoods, health, education, and regional resilience.

Mirasol summarized BukSU’s strategic agenda through the acronym “WE DO”: Willingness to strengthen partnerships, Engagement with diverse stakeholders, Delivery of innovative solutions to local needs, and Opening pathways for collaborative learning and action.

“When we are connected, we can innovate,” Dr. Mirasol stated, highlighting BukSU’s commitment to collaborative action. (Jessabell Q. Cabada/ Head, Research Services Management)