Now in its ninth year, the Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) continues to fortify its position as a global hub for research synergy through its flagship event, the International STEAM+ Research Congress (iSTEAM+). Having evolved from its foundational focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Agri-Fisheries, and Mathematics (STEAM), the congress now champions a truly holistic “STEAM+” paradigm. This integration encompasses health sciences, social sciences, humanities, and economics, recognizing that the most pressing global challenges cannot be solved in disciplinary silos.

The 2026 theme, “S & T for Humanity: Advancing Ethical, Inclusive, and Sustainable Innovations.” marks a critical milestone in the congress’s history. As we navigate an era of rapid digital transformation and environmental shifts, the 9th iSTEAM+ focuses on the human element of progress. It underscores the imperative that scientific and technological advancements must be governed by ethics, designed for inclusivity, and committed to long-term environmental and social sustainability.

Under the leadership of University President Dr. Dennis C. de Paz, the congress serves as a cornerstone of EVSU’s aim to be the National University for Resilience and Climate Action (NURCA). This institutional vision demands research that is not only academically excellent but also practically responsive to the vulnerabilities of climate-prone regions like Eastern Visayas.

By strengthening collaborations with the Eastern Visayas Consortium for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technologies Research and Development (EVCIEERD) and the Philippine-American Academy of Science and Engineering (PAASE), the 9th iSTEAM+ provides a dynamic platform for multi-sectoral partnerships. It invites a global community of experts to bridge the gap between innovation and impact, ensuring that Research, Innovation, and Extension (RIE) initiatives contribute to a resilient regional ecosystem and a more equitable global knowledge economy.