𝐉𝐇𝐂𝐒𝐂 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐈 𝐂𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐀𝐈 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫

In a landmark move to advance research and innovation across disciplines, J.H. Cerilles State College (JHCSC) conducted a rollout conference for the Integrated Center for Research in Environment, Agriculture, Technology, Entrepreneurship, Arts, and Innovation (I CREATE AI) on October 17, 2025, at the IT Building Conference Room of the JHCSC Pagadian Campus. The event was spearheaded by Dr. Jerry B. Superales, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Resource Generation (VPRERG), with key support from Prof. Ruel S. Lasagas, Director for Research, and Dr. Joel Sabellano, Jr., Director of the Community Extension and Services Office (CESO), under the strategic guidance of College President Dr. Edgardo H. Rosales.

The conference gathered faculty researchers, deans, campus directors, staff, and designated officials from across JHCSC campuses, marking a pivotal step toward institutionalizing a strong culture of interdisciplinary research. The I CREATE AI initiative aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflecting the college’s commitment to solving real-world problems through collaborative, data-driven, and socially responsible research and innovation. According to organizers, this rollout is part of the institution’s broader effort to position itself as a key contributor to national and global development through scholarly work.

As the college’s flagship research and innovation center, I CREATE AI embodies a forward-thinking and inclusive approach to academic research. It is built upon nine foundational pillars that guide its mission: advancing environmental sustainability, promoting agricultural innovation, driving technological progress, fostering entrepreneurship, cultivating creative arts and innovation, enhancing healthcare and nursing education, strengthening justice education and ethical research, upholding legal integrity and social justice, and promoting quality education and lifelong learning. These guiding principles serve as the core values of I CREATE AI and are embedded in the operations of its nine specialized research hubs, each assigned to specific academic departments and host campuses.

Among the research hubs introduced during the event is the Hospitality Management and Entrepreneurship (HoME) Research Hub, which aims to lead research in tourism, hospitality, and entrepreneurship through industry collaboration and sustainable solutions. The Center for Applied Research in Nursing Education (CARE) focuses on interdisciplinary research in nursing education, clinical practice, and healthcare policy, aiming to contribute to professional development and improved public health outcomes. Meanwhile, the Innovative Studies in Postgraduate Interdisciplinary Research and Education (INSPIRE) Research Center is designed to boost excellence in graduate education by developing cutting-edge methodologies and strengthening global academic partnerships.

The conference also showcased research centers dedicated to science, technology, and sustainable development. The Research in Infrastructure, Design, and Green Engineering Systems (RIDGES) Hub promotes green engineering and climate-resilient technologies through applied civil and agricultural biosystems research. The Digital Applications and Technology Advancement (DATA) Hub specializes in artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, and software innovation to address modern technological challenges. In agriculture and environmental studies, the Center for Research in Environment, Smart and Organic Agriculture (CRESOA) leads efforts in sustainable farming, climate change adaptation, and biosystems automation, contributing to food security and environmental conservation.

Rounding out the nine hubs are centers that delve into social sciences, education, and governance. The Center for Research in Social Science, Security, Policy, Ethics, and Laws (CRSSSPEL) supports evidence-based policy reform and legal research aligned with national R&D priorities. The Research in Educational Arts and Culture Hub (REACH) integrates creative arts, language studies, and political science to preserve cultural heritage and enhance educational practices. Finally, the Center for Advanced Research in Education and Lifelong Learning (CAREALL) focuses on curriculum innovation, learning theories, and pedagogy to elevate the quality of instruction across all levels of education. Each hub is supported by a designated group of faculty researchers, ensuring focused expertise and sustained scholarly output. Through this rollout initiative, JHCSC continues building a dynamic research ecosystem that is inclusive, collaborative, and globally engaged.

With I CREATE AI now institutionalized, JHCSC reaffirms its commitment to nurturing a culture of innovation that not only enriches academic pursuits but also contributes meaningfully to regional development and global solutions. The initiative is expected to catalyze multi-sectoral partnerships, empower faculty and students as knowledge producers, and generate impactful research aligned with the needs of communities. As the college moves forward, it envisions I CREATE AI as a vital instrument for transforming research into actionable change, making education not just a pursuit of knowledge, but a driving force for sustainable progress.