DOST to lead the nat’I science and technology week

Science and technology enthusiasts are in for a treat this coming 17 to 21 July 2018 as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) headed by Sec. Fortunato T. de la Peña leads the nation in celebrating the 2018 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) at the World Trade Center (Halls A-C) in Pasay City.

Held annually, the NSTW highlights how science, technology, and innovation (STI) play a major part in achieving national development.

“Science and technology innovation are today’s key drivers for growth and development, it seems like philippines is lagging behind our neighbors especially in the global innovation index which was recently published.

“Our performance is a little mediocre - what is the problem? The problem is we really lack qualified people in the STEM area - Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics - DOST has been for the longest time working towards improving our year. Our human resource program is supporting more than 30 thiusand scholars every year from BS to BHD,” said Richard Burgos, Director of Science and Technology Information Institute.

He added that he hopes more people would join their campaign in promoting science and technology in the country.

This year’s NSTW will carry the theme “Science for the People: Innovation for Collective Prosperity.”

The exhibit for this year will simulate an ecosystem of how STI work together for the progress of a community. Technologies developed by the DOST and its attached agencies, as well as its partners, will be displayed for the first time via interactive displays in four clusters namely: STI at Home, STI in School, STI in the Workplace and STI in the Marketplace.

Aside from the main exhibit, forums will be conducted at the mezzanine area of the center.

To be held at the main stage are forums on the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) and Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST).

There will also be activities lined up on the side such as film showing, scientific career talks, science journalism writeshop, and others. Though the entrance to the NSTW is open, some of the events may require preregistration or on a per-invitation-only basis.

The NSTW is celebrated every third week of July through Proclamation No. 169 of 1993. It aims to recognize the contribution of science and technology in the development of the country garner support from the public and private institutions for its sustainable development.

After the event, a series of regional science and technology fairs will also be held in every region in the country until December. For complete schedule, visit www.nstw.dost.gov.ph