by Rochie Gabatilla and Briane Daniel, DNSC-PCNHS Interns
PANABO CITY – Three decades after becoming Davao del Norte State College (DNSC), the institution is preparing for yet another major transition. During the State of the College Address (SOCA) delivered by President Joy M. Sorrosa on February 14, 2025, a highlight of the Charter Day Celebration, she outlined the academic, student development, research, administrative, and internationalization milestones achieved in 2024, all of which contribute to DNSC’s preparation for its transformation into Davao del Norte State University (DNSU).
“If I were asked if we are ready, I would say we have rolled up our sleeves for years, and we are ready to embrace the journey of becoming a university,” said College President Dr. Joy M. Sorrosa. House Bill 11344, which aims to elevate DNSC to a state university, is currently scheduled for preliminary deliberation in the Senate.
“With infrastructure development, academic advancements, strengthened internationalization efforts, and improved administrative operations, DNSC is poised to take the next step,” she added.
and future initiatives. Photo by Johnex Escarlan,The Davao Reef.
DNSC celebrated several academic milestones, including government employees and Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) successfully completing their education, as well as students excelling in licensure examinations for Secondary Education, Social Work, and Fisheries.
The institution has established global partnerships and is working towards aligning its quality assurance systems with the United Nations Quality Assurance framework, ensuring global competitiveness and adherence to international standards. DNSC was able to tap into the global pool of scholars by hosting the 3rd International Research Festival, as well as contributing knowledge generation by launching the journals; Mindanao Review and Mindanao Affairs.
As part of its commitment to growth, DNSC is integrating smart technologies into its academic and administrative processes to develop a smart campus. The college is also expanding its infrastructure in satellite campuses located in the Municipality of Sto. Tomas, the Island Garden City of Samal, and the Municipality of Carmen.
Dr. Sorrosa emphasized that as of 2025, DNSC stands on the brink of a transformative journey, promising a bright future for the institution and its stakeholders. “While the future may seem uncertain, we are confident in our ability to shape it through preparation, determination, and faith,” she concluded.
