The CHED-initiated SUC TRADE FAIR 2024, held from July 9–11, 2024, at KCC Mall de Zamboanga, showcased the dynamic fusion of culture and innovation in Philippine higher education. With the theme “Weaving Culture and Innovation for a Transformative, Resilient, and Globally-Recognized Philippine Higher Education,” the event highlighted the pioneering contributions of state universities and colleges (SUCs) in promoting academic excellence, cultural preservation, and sustainable practices.
The SUC TRADE FAIR 2024 featured an impressive display of innovative products and solutions developed by state universities and colleges in Region VII. Each participating institution presented its unique approach to blending cultural heritage with modern innovations aimed at enhancing education and community development. Notable highlights included eco-friendly tote bags from Cebu Technological University (CTU), sustainable food products such as breadfruit and cocoyam offerings from the CTU Argao Center for Innovation in Agriculture, and delectable, locally-sourced snacks from the CTU-Tuburan campus that demonstrated culinary creativity and sustainability. These contributions illustrated how academic institutions are not just centers of learning but also active players in addressing real-world issues through innovative solutions.
The event took place from July 9–11, 2024, aligning with the growing emphasis on integrating sustainability, innovation, and culture in higher education in the Philippines. This timing is crucial as it coincides with global trends that demand more resilient and sustainable educational models in response to climate change, technological disruption, and social responsibility.
Hosted by KCC Mall de Zamboanga, a major hub in the region, the event provided a platform for institutions to engage with a wide audience, including students, faculty, industry leaders, and the general public. The venue’s accessibility and prominence allowed the innovations presented to reach diverse stakeholders, contributing to a broader dialogue on the future of Philippine higher education.
Key contributors included Dr. Joseph C. Pepito, SUC President IV of Cebu Technological University, alongside Dr. Lolita V. Velita, University Director for Resource Generation and Linkages, who led the eco-friendly initiatives. From CTU Argao campus, Dr. Hermes Alburo and Marjorie de Joya showcased agricultural innovation, while Dr. Monifel S. Galagar and Prof. Vicel B. Albaño from the CTU-Tuburan campus impressed visitors with their sustainable food products. These leaders, along with other faculty and students, exemplified the collaboration between educational institutions and local communities in addressing contemporary challenges.
The SUC TRADE FAIR 2024 was not only a celebration of academic and cultural achievements but also a clear manifestation of the critical role that higher education institutions play in driving societal change. By weaving together culture and innovation, the event underscored the commitment of SUCs to sustainability, social responsibility, and academic excellence. Moving forward, such initiatives will continue to inspire future generations to pursue transformative solutions to the pressing challenges faced by society, further cementing the Philippines’ place on the global educational stage.
