GOVPH

The National Science and Technology Week (NSTW), an annual celebration of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), focuses on how developments in science, technology, and innovations will help achieve the Philippines’ commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

At the opening of the 2019 NSTW, DOST Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña talked about the SDGs and how innovations and technologies are paving the way for the attainment of the country’s SDG goals.

“This year’s NSTW focuses on how science and technology are helping us achieve the Sustainable Development Goals,” said Sec. de la Peña. “With our NSTW experience, I can say that there is hope in the Philippines because of science and technology.”

The Secretary described the eight clusters in the exhibit area at the NSTW which displays the latest technologies and innovations, programs, and advocacies of the different agencies of the DOST.
President Rodrigo Duterte, the keynote speaker for the NSTW, was represented by Department of Education Secretary Leonor Briones, who commended the President for his support to the establishment of the Senior High School program. Sec. Briones believes that the integration of STEM education in the senior high school program will provide a strong science and technology foundation among the youth who will be scientists, researchers, engineers, and mathematicians in the future.

Sec. Briones also acknowledged how science and technology has helped improved the way science is being taught these days. “Science and technology developments are helping our teachers improve the way we teach,” said Sec Briones.

Incoming chair of the Science and Technology Committee at the Senate, Senator Francis Tolentino, also graced the opening of the NSTW and shared how excited he is to chair the S&T Committee and learn new things about science and technology and how it will help improve the lives of Filipinos.

The event also saw the launching of Chris Tiu as DOST brand ambassador to help spread awareness on science and technology especially among the youth.
“My role is to help encourage the youth to love science or to pursue a career in science, or at least consider it,” said Tiu. He added that with his following, especially in social media, he can help encourage the youth to love science or go into science.

“Hopefully, the youth can also channel their interest in social media and incorporate science in their content,” Tiu said. He added that he himself hopes to create content on social media that is focused on S&T to help change the minds of the youth about the field.

The 2019 NSTW will run 17-21 July at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. Admission to the exhibits are free and open to the public. (By Sheila Marie J. de Luna, DOST-STII)