QSU has earned a distinguished award from the Cagayan Valley Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (CVAARRD) for its project, Smarter and Sustainable Coffee Production through Clonal Propagation and Rejuvenation Technology during its 46th Anniversary on December 6. The plaque was received by Dr. Hermenegildo F. Samoy Jr., University President and Dr. Elizabeth T. Carig, the Project Leader.

This award emphasizes the institution’s significant contribution as a key project showcased during the 2024 Ugnay Award, a prestigious recognition given by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD). Led by the scientific and creative expertise of Dr. Elizabeth T. Carig and her team, For. Joel G. Carig, For. Jonalyn J. Quinan, For. Gerlyn B. Orpiano, For. Anjomar P. Tuazon, For. Arnold N. Pugong, Dr. Dyanika P. Nolasco, Ms. Ailyn Joy P. Padrigo, Ms. Danisse Mae P. Herandez, and Ms. Jesa Jane F. Sales, the project is expected to forward innovative solutions and scientific efforts towards sustainable coffee farming.

With funding from the Department of Science and Technology Region 02 (DOST 02) through the Grants-in-Aid (GIA) program, the initiative leverages advanced clonal propagation and rejuvenation techniques to revolutionize coffee production in the province, and in the region in the future. By integrating smart agricultural practices, the project not only enhances productivity but also ensures sustainability in coffee cultivation. QSU’s role in this success has been critical. The recognition from PCAARRD further highlights the university’s commitment to addressing agricultural challenges through innovative solutions. CVAARRD, lifted by the success of QSU’s project and other SUCs projects visited, was awarded the Hall of Fame distinction at the 2024 Ugnay Award. This achievement strengthens the consortium’s reputation as a leader in the agricultural research and development landscape. “This recognition is proof to the effort of researchers, stakeholders, and the academic community in advancing sustainable agriculture,” said Dr. Carig. “We are honored to contribute to the betterment of coffee farmers and the agricultural sector in our province.” The Smarter and Sustainable Coffee Production project serves as an inspiration for other institutions to embrace innovative research for the benefit of local communities. It is a reminder of how science and technology can drive progress and improve lives, making QSU and CVAARRD sources of transformative development in agriculture.