ASSCAT, PNVSCA Seal Partnership to Mainstream Volunteerism in Higher Education

The Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT) formally inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) today, marking a significant step toward institutionalizing volunteerism in higher education.

 

Held at the ASSCAT Board Room, the MOA Signing and Consultative Meeting brought together stakeholders from across the province to promote youth engagement in civic service. PNVSCA Executive Director Mr. Donald James D. Gawe, CESO III, delivered a keynote presentation on volunteerism as a transformative force in national development, emphasizing the role of educational institutions in nurturing a spirit of ‘bayanihan’ among young Filipinos.

 

The agreement outlines a multi-faceted partnership between PNVSCA and ASSCAT to mainstream volunteerism across the institution’s academic and service-oriented programs. Under the agreement, ASSCAT commits to establishing a dedicated Volunteerism Office to coordinate efforts across departments, conduct research on volunteer practices, assist in local governance advocacy, and maintain a volunteer database with regular reporting on volunteer mobilization.

 

The activity aligns with the institution’s goal of developing not only academically proficient graduates but also socially conscious citizens. It also supports Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by promoting shared responsibilities and multisectoral collaboration for nation-building.

 

Representatives from partner institutions including St. Francis Xavier College and Philippine Normal University – Mindanao were also present, signaling broader support for embedding volunteerism in the academic sector.

 

ASSCAT was represented by key officials: Vice President for Academic Affairs and Quality Assurance Dr. Carmelo S. Llanto, Vice President for Administration, Finance, and Planning Ms. Janice S. Dini-ay, Extension Director Mr. Boylen Cabag, and Office of Student Affairs and Services Director Dr. Mary Grace Reyes.

 

With this partnership, ASSCAT reaffirms its commitment to producing graduates who lead not only in their professions but also in service to others.