PANABO CITY – On July 30, 2024, Davao del Norte State College (DNSC) welcomed a delegation from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region VI, led by Regional Director Raul Alvarez Jr. PhD, at the DNSC Gender and Development (GAD) Conference Room. The visit aimed to review the milestones and plans of the proposed DNSC-Katutubo campus in the Municipality of Talaingod.

In 2017, the Datu Jose A. Libayao: DNSC Talaingod Extension Campus was inaugurated following an agreement between DNSC and various agencies, including the Ata-Manobo Tribal Council and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP). This collaboration enabled DNSC to admit its pilot batch of 41 Ata-Manobo scholars, marking a significant step towards inclusive education.

Under the leadership of College President Joy M. Sorrosa, the DNSC-DJAL has since evolved into the DNSC Talaingod Campus, now offering a Bachelor of Science in Agroforestry program. The college’s mission to enhance its impact is further supported by lobbying for the DNSC Katutubo Campus law, which aims to institutionalize the campus and its programs.

The DNSC Katutubo Campus aspires to provide quality higher education to Indigenous communities and peace champions, fostering inclusive growth in the region while preserving and honoring Indigenous culture and practices. The presentation also highlighted plans for establishing the Ata-Manobo Cultural Museum and Textile Hub, which will serve as a testament to the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the Ata-Manobo people.

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