GOVPH

Science and Technology Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. encouraged students from the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) to leverage their knowledge to uplift lives and improve communities in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas. 

During a recent visit to the PSHS-MIMAROPA campus in Odiongan, Romblon, Secretary Solidum emphasized that what distinguishes "Pisay" graduates is their commitment to giving back, serving others, and fostering innovation. 

“At the DOST, we want to nurture this spirit,” Solidum pointed out. “That’s why we created the Technopreneurship Program to help young innovators like you become your own boss.” Solidum who also hails from Odiongan, Romblon stressed the need to cultivate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship — “where your ideas can grow into solutions and solutions into sustainable enterprises.” 

He also encouraged the students in MIMAROPA to reach out to the DOST Provincial Science and Technology Office and collaborate through the Innovation Hub (iHub) and pursue their ideas and turn them into products and services.

“For true innovation to thrive, and for meaningful startups to emerge, three things must work hand in hand: education, infrastructure, and opportunity. And among these, education is the most crucial. Once we strengthen education, everything else follows,” said Sec. Solidum. 

Innovation Hub for Student-Researcher in Romblon

An innovation hub is set to be established in Odiongan, Romblon, in support of a new initiative. In an interview during the Kapihan sa PIA Romblon two months ago, Mae Angelica Famini, the Science and Technology Officer of the Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO-Romblon), shared that the DOST is drafting plans for this Innovation Hub (iHub) to assist student researchers and innovators from Romblon. 

The iHub will function as a co-working space where students and researchers can access the internet and use various gadgets to develop their ideas. They will also receive mentorship from experts who will guide them in refining their projects and innovations. 

This hub is expected to be operational at the DOST MIMAROPA Provincial Science and Technology Office in Odiongan, Romblon. 

Notable iHubs in other regions include those in Kalinga, Zamboanga del Norte, and Guimaras, each designed to address local innovation needs and promote inclusive economic development through public-private partnerships.

Additionally, Secretary Solidum visited the construction site for the new Academic Building 2, which is planned to include additional classrooms and state-of-the-art laboratories. This new hub is inspired by the DOST logo, featuring four interconnected circular segments that reflect the iconic DOST emblem.  (By Allan Mauro V. Marfal, DOST-STII)