In a compelling plenary session, the President of North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU), Dr. Nemesion Loayon, delivered an inspiring talk on “Sustainability and Strategic Mechanisms of NEMSU Community Extension Programs.” He shared the university’s dynamic approach to community involvement, focusing on how NEMSU has successfully cultivated a strong culture of engagement among faculty members.

Central to his talk were the university’s four strategic pillars that serve as the foundation of their extension initiatives: Food Security, Environmental Conservation Projects, Literacy and Educational Support, and Professional and Digital Empowerment. These pillars guide the university in aligning its extension activities with the real and pressing needs of communities. Dr. Loayon emphasized how NEMSU motivates its faculty by embedding extension work into academic responsibilities, supporting innovative projects, and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration. He proudly showcased some of the tangible outputs of their programs—such as the unique and community-rooted Danggit Ice Cream and Banana Loaf, which highlight local resources and promote sustainable livelihoods.

This plenary talk not only underscored the sustainability of NEMSU’s extension efforts but also served as a model for how academic institutions can be agents of transformation through inclusive and strategic community engagement.