North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU) convened its 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 at NEMSU Bislig Campus to discuss major institutional proposals, procurement plans, and financial strategies for Fiscal Year 2025. The meeting was attended by key university officials and executives led by University President Dr. Nemesio G. Loayon.

One of the priority concerns raised was the identification of courses with high dropout rates to implement targeted interventions. In line with this, the committee reviewed a proposal for a university-sponsored scholarship program for student-athletes, and academically exceptional students. The initiative aims to provide financial assistance and minimize dropout rates among deserving students.

Moreover, the meeting also highlighted the continuation of the Tagbina Campus building project, with more than ₱2 million allocated for procurement. The initiative, classified as a continuing project, was added to the Annual Procurement Plan (APP), utilizing mandatory reserved funds due to structural damage caused by recent earthquakes.

Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Maria Lady Sol A. Suazo discussed ongoing procurement matters, particularly Item No. 134, which focuses on delinquent contractors. The Project Management Unit (PMU) was requested to provide a bird’s-eye view of existing projects, with campus directors set to receive updates on the status of these initiatives.

Further strengthening NEMSU’s academic framework, the Research Office was tasked with initiating an academic program through the conduct of at least one research proposal as part of its initial strategy. Additionally, discussions centered on university branding and identity, particularly the NEMSU Alpas logo. The university is set to apply for a trademark to protect its branding, with plans to launch a revised version featuring the applied trademark. A temporary restriction order was also considered while awaiting the official approval of the trademark.

During the afternoon session, the discussion shifted to financial sustainability, particularly the absence of a capital outlay for 2025-2026. In response, a proposal of Prof Ramel Tomaquin to apply for a loan was put forward as an alternative funding strategy.

The committee deliberated on Section 17 loan agreements, emphasizing the need to examine the university’s capacity to pay, assess financial risks, and ensure that NEMSU’s credit standing remains intact. President Nemesio highlighted the importance of adopting an “Entrepreneurial Mindset”, suggesting that infrastructure projects should be income-generating to sustain university operations.

As part of NEMSU’s 8-Point Agenda, Dr. Abundio Miralles, Vice President for Admin and Finance emphasized that the Office of the President will oversee the implementation of programs and activities aligned with the university’s strategic vision. Campus Directors from different campuses were encouraged to introduce relevant initiatives that contribute to institutional growth.

Other matters discussed included guidelines for inter-campus per diem, ensuring a balance between personnel comfort and safety; implementation of employee IDs and a new student ID template, set to take effect next semester, and the official transition of the university’s registered name from SDSSU to NEMSU.

The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration among university officials to effectively implement these initiatives, ensuring NEMSU’s continuous development in both academic and administrative aspects.