In a bold step towards advancing academic excellence and societal impact, the Research and Extension Units of North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU) recently convened for a 2-Day Workshop on the Assessment and Formulation of the University's Research and Extension Agenda for the years 2024-2028. Held on March 11-12, 2024, at Lizvil Beach Resort in Cagwait, Surigao del Sur, the workshop brought together a diverse group of research and extension personnel, all dedicated to shaping the future landscape of the university's units.

Dr. Rolly G. Salvaleon, Vice President for Research and Extension, spearheaded the opening program, emphasizing the timeliness of the workshop in aligning the research and extension agenda with the evolving needs of the community. With a focus on collaboration and strategic planning, the workshop aimed to set a clear direction for NEMSU's endeavors in research and extension.

The workshop unfolded with an appreciative inquiry approach, led by resource speakers Dr. Cesar Demayo and Dr. Mark Anthony J. Torres. Participants were guided through a journey of defining, discovering, dreaming, designing, and destiny, collectively exploring the essence of the university's research and extension agenda. Through reflective discussions, attendees celebrated past achievements, identified present strengths, and envisioned bold aspirations for the future, setting a positive tone for the workshop and instilling a sense of purpose and direction.

Dr. Torres introduced the System Mapping and Visual Organizer Frameworks, providing participants with a strategic tool for uncovering existing issues across the university's seven campuses. Through interactive exercises, attendees visualized interconnected systems, identifying bottlenecks, gaps, and opportunities for improvement. System maps offered a comprehensive overview of the complex challenges facing each campus, guiding targeted interventions and resource allocation efforts.

Building upon insights gleaned from visual organizers and system mapping, participants engaged in the crucial task of identifying thrusts and priorities for the university's research and extension agenda. Leveraging an impact and uncertainty assessment framework, attendees evaluated potential initiatives based on their anticipated level of impact and uncertainty. This evaluation process ensured strategic allocation of resources, maximizing NEMSU's capacity to address pressing issues effectively.

The two-day workshop on the assessment and formulation of NEMSU's research and extension agenda 2024-2028 exemplified the transformative power of collaboration, strategic planning, and collective action. As NEMSU continues its journey towards excellence and impact, it does so with a renewed sense of optimism and resolve, knowing that its collective efforts will shape the future for generations to come.