15/04/2024
Seminar-Workshop Paves Way for Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubation in Cordillera Administrative Region
In a concerted effort to bolster agricultural and aquacultural innovation in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), a landmark seminar workshop was held last March 25 to 27, 2024. Hosted at the ATBI Center within Benguet State University (BSU), the event garnered participation from a spectrum of stakeholders, including CAR State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Government Units (LGUs), the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), and the WWRDEC.
Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ruth C. Diego, the Director of the BSU ATBI, and with the esteemed presence of Dr. Janet P. Pablo, Director of the Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (CorCAARRD), the seminar-workshop unfolded as a pivotal platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
One of the highlights of the event was the active participation of representatives from the Abra State Institute of Sciences and Technology (ASIST), headed by Ms. Kae Ann Marie Balingit together with Ms. Bersheeba Taclawan, and Mr. Mario Buenafe. Their engagement underscored ASIST's commitment to fostering regional innovation and entrepreneurship.
Dr. Felipe S. Comila, President of Benguet State University, warmly welcomed all participants, emphasizing the significance of collective action in driving sustainable development in the CAR region.
Throughout the seminar-workshop, attendees engaged in dynamic discussions and brainstorming sessions to chart the course for establishing a Regional Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubation (ATBI) framework. Drawing upon the experiences and successes of existing ATBIs within institutions like Ifugao State University (IFSU), ASIST, and BSU, participants explored strategies to catalyze innovation, support budding entrepreneurs, and harness the region's agricultural potential.
With a firm commitment to collaboration and innovation, the seminar-workshop concluded on a promising note, setting the stage for concerted efforts toward realizing a vibrant and sustainable agri-aqua technology ecosystem in the Cordillera Administrative Region.