Earlier today, MSU at Naawan (MSUN) and Shunammite Child Learning Center (SCLC) of Linamon, Lanao del Norte formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to establish partnership in implementing the "Honoring the Planet through Environmental Stewardship (HOPES) Project."

The event was hosted by MSU at Naawan, led by Dr. Aida Dadole-Perpetua, Director of the DARES Center, and Dr. Anabelle Dece A. Espadero, Director of the Research and Innovation Institute. Representing SCLC were Jonathan B. Maata, PH1920 Pastor, and Mr. Noel N. Rebuta, PH1920 Project Committee Chair.

Following the MOA signing, the DARES Center, serving as the university’s extension and community development arm, convened a meeting with SCLC to discuss and strategize the project's implementation. MSU at Naawan assured SCLC of its full support in ensuring the project's successful execution and achievement of its objectives. In response, SCLC expressed its gratitude for MSU at Naawan’s assistance, from the conceptualization of the proposal to the project's forthcoming implementation.

Due to prior commitments and pressing matters related to MSUN’s development, Dr. Elnor C. Roa, University Chancellor and Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Global Engagement signed the MOA later in the afternoon. Chancellor Roa conveyed her appreciation to SCLC for choosing 

MSU at Naawan as a partner in this initiative, emphasizing the university’s vital role in promoting sustainable development and environmental conservation.

The HOPES Project is funded by Compassion Philippines, an organization dedicated to freeing children from poverty. As part of its Creation Care Program, the project aims to integrate environmental stewardship and sustainability practices into community development efforts through the following activities; 

1. Going Zero Waste: A Forum Towards Sustainability

2. Organic and Container Gardening: Sustainable Solutions for Rural and Urban Living

3. Community Clean-up Drives: Uniting for a Litter-free Community

4. Fruit Tree Planting: Nourishing the Earth, Feeding the Future

This partnership reaffirms MSU at Naawan’s commitment to fostering sustainable initiatives and driving social transformation through active community engagement.