The Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Region 8 office recently launched its Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Week (RSTW) in Eastern Visayas at the People’s Center and Library. The event will be held from July 25 to 27, 2024.
This year’s theme, “Bluer and Smarter Eastern Visayas,” underscores the importance of science, technology and innovation (STI) in achieving sustainable development and making the region a hub of environmental and economic resilience.
DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang highlighted the RSTW as a platform for bringing together the people of Eastern Visayas. He said the event allows individuals and communities to participate in reshaping the region’s socioeconomic landscape.
“By leveraging STI, Eastern Visayas can unlock new potentials, foster innovations and promote a more dynamic and progressive society,” Mabborang said.
DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., in his keynote address during the launch, elaborated on various initiatives and projects aligned with DOST’s strategic pillars: wealth creation, wealth protection, human well-being, promotion and sustainability.
Solidum said the RSTW showcases the collaborative efforts of DOST 8 and its partners. The Wealth Creation pillar focuses on introducing new technologies and products from research and development institutes (RDIs) and sectoral councils.
He added that the emphasis on wealth creation also includes disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM). Exhibits will be featured to enhance disaster awareness and preparedness.
The Human Well-being pillar includes initiatives like the deployment of Indie Siyensya fields and the STEM Career guidebook and toolkit. Sustainability efforts will be highlighted through programs designed to promote smart communities and iSTART initiatives.
Mabborang said the RSTW aims to raise awareness about the importance of sustainability and responsible innovation. The event seeks to drive positive change by advocating for the transformation of communities into smart communities and by enhancing the blue economy.
The RSTW will include forums, learning sessions, interactive exhibits and scientific discussions. These activities are designed to engage participants from various partner institutions and stakeholders, fostering a collaborative environment for exchanging ideas and innovations.
Key events include the Technology Investment Forum, Blue Economy Forum and Smart Communities Forum. These forums will present innovative DOST technologies, products and services that address community challenges and improve the quality of life in Region 8.
The Research and Development Symposium will focus on smart and sustainable communities and the blue economy, highlighting how technology and innovation can build resilient communities and protect marine resources.
The RSTW will also feature the unveiling of the modernized Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory (RSTL) and the launch of various innovation centers in the region. These centers are designed to meet the needs of stakeholders in Region 8 and support the region’s growth and development.
“Through scientific exhibits, forums and interactive sessions, DOST 8 aims to introduce new projects and services that benefit the people of Eastern Visayas,” Mabborang said.
Overall, the RSTW is a strategic initiative by DOST 8 to promote regional awareness, collaboration and innovation. By bringing together diverse sectors and promoting the adoption of science and technology, the event aims to drive sustainable development and improve the socioeconomic conditions of Eastern Visayas.
Solidum said the RSTW observance underscores DOST’s commitment to creating “an environment that nurtures innovation, encourages inclusive growth, and leads to a sustainable and prosperous future for the region.”