Encouraging new generations of scientific thinkers
For US-based pharmaceutical innovator Pfizer, research and development (R&D) is at the heart of fulfilling its purpose of translating advanced science and technologies into therapies that matter most in the lives of its patients.
In line with such commitment to R&D, Pfizer Philippines values and supports the training of young, inquisitive minds to keep the spirit of scientific research alive.
In 2005, Pfizer Philippines’ corporate social responsibility arm Pfizer Philippines Foundation, Inc. (PPFI) forged a partnership with Iloilo-based “Pisay” or Philippine Science High School–Western Visayas Campus (PSHSWVC) to establish the Youth Science Research Program (YSRP).
As one of Pfizer Philippines’ flagship CSR projects, YSRP was founded with the aim of awarding grants to senior students of the school as they conduct individual or group research studies. Following the grant, the students then showcase the results of their studies in the annual Youth Science Research Congress also held at PSHSWVC.
More than just providing grants, however, the program has evolved significantly over the years and contributed in many other ways to the development of the youth as nation-builders. “First, it has successfully developed skills and knowledge among young researchers which are essential in conducting remarkable research studies,” says Nannie Macalincag, PPFI programs manager.
Pfizer, being a research-based pharmaceutical company, values this discipline and training in order to inspire young minds to perhaps eventually contribute to healthcare solutions not only in the Philippines but worldwide.
“Second, results of the research studies under the program are aimed at addressing challenges that confront various local communities,” explains Macalincag. The studentresearchers themselves, guided by their teachers and mentors, work with concerned community members and local government units in tackling a wide array of issues, from environmental protection and conservation; to nutrition, health and livelihood.
For instance, research projects include studies on local materials and resources that may be used as substitutes for production or quality improvements in commercial and health products. Some studies focus on assessment of environmental conditions in local communities.
“Third, it has gone beyond training PSHSWVC students to also include teachers and students from neighboring public elementary and high schools,” said Macalincag. For the past six years, PPFI has been sponsoring the Community Research Fair, which provides researchers at PSHSWVC an opportunity to showcase and share their research with other public elementary and high schools.
PSHSWVC faculty and students visit nearby communities, set up research exhibits, and present their investigative studies. The Community Research Fair ultimately serves as a platform to also encourage children to learn more about science and technology.
This year, the group of PSHSWVC had the opportunity to travel back to Anilao, Iloilo where the first Community Research Fair was held. In addition to the exhibit and research forum, the event was highlighted by an update on research studies conducted over the years to help restore Banate Bay, where marine life was previously endangered due to severe pollution.
Every year, the YSRP also hands out awards for Research of the Year and Researcher of the Year, which are part of the PSHSWVC students’ graduation ceremony every month of April.
“Having everyone gain something from being part of the program clearly demonstrates the benefit of innovation,” underscores Macalincag.
Pfizer is strongly committed to continue with the groundbreaking program and even scale new heights, especially as it has reached its landmark 10th anniversary this year. “We are thankful for the collaboration between PPFI and PSHSWVC and also with other stakeholders such as the community. For us, this has strongly taken the YSRP through the 10-year period and allowed the program to grow into what it is today,” explains Macalincag.
The YSRP has thus far awarded grants to 169 students who have successfully implemented 78 research projects. From its simple beginnings 10 years ago, the grant continues to serve as an inspiration and motivation for the students of Pisay, and hopefully soon for many other Filipino students as well who aspire to make a change in the world through better scientific thinking and research.