Seeking to establish a stronger network between the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) R&D Group and external stakeholders from the academic, government, as well as private sectors, the second S&T Fellows Convention was recently held on Friday, July 21. *Dhel Nazario/Manila Bulletin*
With the theme "Katuwang sa Pagtuklas at Pagpapaunlad Tungo sa Masaganang Kinabukasan," the gathering of the country's leading scientific minds put a spotlight on the S&T Fellows' essential contributions and interventions in the identified priority sectors of the national government, playing a pivotal role in revamping the economy and propelling progress for the nation. According to DOST, it also aims foster collaboration and knowledge exchange, paving the way for even greater progress in the future. “Science, technology and innovation translates to better lives,” said DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. “Through the S&T Fellows Program, we have the capacity to create stronger, more inclusive, profitable and environmentally responsible methods in moving forward,“ he added. The S&T Fellows Program, albeit only in its second year of implementation, has already paved the way for significant interventions in health, affordable and clean energy, food security, industry, and other fields. "We hope that the groundbreaking endeavors of our S&T Fellows to which they immersed themselves will not only inspire but foster more R&D collaboration far beyond the confines of this gathering,” underscored DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Leah J. Buendia. Among the highlights of the convention are the plenary speakers who are esteemed experts in their fields and shared their insights and experiences in driving innovation and upgrading local industries. Additionally, poster presentations offered a glimpse into the future of science and technology solutions, featuring remarkable projects such as the Modular Multi-Industry Innovation Center. The Modular Multi-Industry Innovation Center (MMIC), or InnoHub, is a state-of-the-art R&D facility focused on utilizing agro-industrial processing wastes and by-products as raw materials for the development of new products, product equivalents, product variances, product reintroductions, and pilot capacity production. The facility operates three R&D lines: Mix Blend Powders, Nut & Seed Oils, and Liquids & Emulsions, equipped with multi-functional modular equipment units to support local industry sectors, including MSMEs and academic institutions, in product development of food, nutraceuticals, dietary fiber, and oral care products. Through its diverse projects, MMIC aims to foster a circular economy, promote industry innovation, encourage responsible consumption and production patterns, ensure safe and secure alternative food sources, and drive economic growth through science, technology, and innovation, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Convention aims to promote its current Call for Applications, now open for hiring 26 S&T Fellows, offering Filipino RSEs a unique opportunity to work on impactful projects in the country, lead R&D initiatives, and access state-of-the-art facilities and equipment within DOST. Additionally, recognizing the importance of bolstering R&D capabilities in various regions and providing valuable support to local S&T flagship programs, the program is pleased to announce the addition of vacancies for the Regional Offices of DOST within the current call, addressing the need for expert professionals in specific fields throughout the country, enabling these new Fellows to contribute to enhancing the research and development capacity of their respective regions. The Convention aims to promote its current Call for Applications, now open for hiring 26 S&T Fellows, offering Filipino RSEs a unique opportunity to work on impactful projects in the country, lead R&D initiatives, and access state-of-the-art facilities and equipment within DOST.