by: LARRY L. VILLALUZ, CDS II
PILI, CAMARINES SUR — In a significant move to bolster cooperative education and advocacy, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region V Extension Office and Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) have entered into a strategic partnership. The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), was formally signed during a ceremony held on June 7, 2024 at the Board Room of the New Administration Building, CBSUA, Pili, Camarines Sur.
The partnership aligns with the objectives outlined in Republic Act 11364, Section 19, which underscores the vital role of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in promoting the advocacy and development of cooperatives within the education system. It also resonates with Republic Act No. 7722, or the Higher Education Act of 1994, Section 2, which emphasizes the State’s commitment to ensuring accessible, quality education for all citizens. This Act also highlights the importance of academic freedom, intellectual growth, research advancement, leadership development, and the preservation of historical and cultural heritage.
The collaboration between CDA Region V and CBSUA aims to integrate cooperative principles and practices into the curriculum, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of cooperatives among students, support the growth and development of cooperatives through targeted educational programs, research initiatives, and community outreach, encourage intellectual growth and research in cooperative studies, contributing to the academic and practical knowledge in the field, cultivate responsible and effective leadership within the cooperative sector, preparing students to take on key roles in cooperative organizations, and enrich the historical and cultural heritage related to cooperatives, ensuring that their contributions to society are recognized and valued.
The MOA signing ceremony was graced by prominent figures from both institutions. Representing CBSUA were Dr. Alberto N. Naperi, University President, Dr. Emerson L. Bergonio, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Ramona Isabel S. Ramirez, Vice President for Research and Innovation, and Dr. Kennedy A. Beltran, the curriculum head. From the CDA, the attendees included Atty. Emilio D. Escueta III, Acting Regional Director, Monina M. Bechayda, Senior CDS and Chief of Cooperative Research Information and Training Section (CRITS) Emalyn Ruth Borja and Jon Andrei O. Banday, CDS II respectively.
Moving Forward
This partnership marks a significant step towards achieving the goals set forth by the Republic Acts, ensuring that cooperative education remains a pivotal part of the academic landscape. Both CDA Region V and CBSUA are committed to nurturing a collaborative environment that will benefit students, cooperative members, and the broader community.
With the formalization of this agreement, the institutions are poised to embark on a series of initiatives designed to integrate cooperative education into the academic framework, promoting a culture of cooperation and shared growth. This collaboration is expected to yield significant benefits, contributing to the socio-economic development of the region and beyond.
