VSU forged its commitment to inclusive collaboration and regional development through the conduct of a Technology Licensing Agreement (TLA) and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing Ceremony at the VSU–OVPREI Breakout Room 1 on September 22, 2025. The activity convened university officials, industry stakeholders, community partners, and technology adopters, underscoring collaborative efforts to translate research-based innovations into practical and sustainable solutions.

The ceremony formally commenced with an inspirational message from University President Dr. Prose Ivy G. Yepes, who underscored the vital role of strategic partnerships in advancing technology transfer, empowering communities, and fostering inclusive growth. She emphasized that collaboration among the academe, industry, and community sectors remains central to VSU’s mission of driving development beyond the university walls.

A highlight of the ceremony was the signing of a Technology Licensing Agreement between the Regional Agriculture Innovation Support Engine–Intellectual Property and Technology Management Body (RAISE-IPTBM) and Five Shepherds Corporation. The agreement covers the adoption of the Trailer-Type Abaca Spindle Machine, a portable, engine-powered technology designed to streamline the extraction of abaca fiber. Designed to enhance efficiency and productivity, the innovation provides farmers with a more accessible and cost-effective solution, thereby supporting the sustainability of the abaca industry.

The event also marked the formalization of several Memoranda of Agreement aimed at strengthening community-based and enterprise-driven initiatives. A MOA was signed between the VSU DA-BAR Technology Business Incubator (TBI) and HIPEDAC (Hindang Persons with Disability Agriculture Cooperative) for the adoption of the Semi-Direct Copra Dryer and Charcoal Pit. This partnership aims to promote efficient and climate-resilient coconut processing while providing livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities (PWDs) through appropriate and inclusive technologies.

Another MOA was entered into with JEJO Hydroponics Farm for the establishment and operation of a Hydroponics Vegetable Production Farm. The collaboration supports the promotion of soilless farming systems for high-value crops such as lettuce, offering a modern and resource-efficient approach to vegetable production that aligns with sustainable agricultural practices.

Technology adopters present during the ceremony delivered short messages, expressing their appreciation for the partnerships and reaffirming their commitment to responsibly adopting and scaling the technologies. Their testimonies highlighted the importance of mutual trust, shared responsibility, and continuous collaboration in ensuring the success of technology transfer initiatives.

Anchored on the theme “Together in Commitment: Strengthening Partnerships for a Broader Tomorrow,” the TLA and MOA Signing Ceremony reflects VSU’s sustained efforts to bridge research and real-world application. By forging alliances with industry partners, cooperatives, and agribusinesses, the university continues to position itself as a catalyst for innovation, inclusivity, and regional progress—transforming academic outputs into tangible benefits for communities and enterprises alike.