The Ninth Annual Balik Scientist Program (BSP) Convention will feature exceptional talents and innovations, an official of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) on Monday, Sept. 25.
"The BSP convention is for science experts from abroad who return to the Philippines for a short period or permanently to share their expertise to help in the country's development," DOST Undersecretary for R&D Leah J. Buendia said in a mix of English and Filipino in a televised briefing. "This is what the Balik Scientist Convention wants to present," she added.
With the theme "Harnessing Global Science for Sustainable Development and Transformation," the BSP Convention will take place on Sept. 27.
This year's event aims to spotlight the invaluable contributions of 12 distinguished scientists who have returned to the Philippines to share their expertise.
The said group of scientists is composed of experts in different fields — four from the Balik Scientist Panelists on Climate Smart Agriculture for Food Security, four from Health Security and Health System Resilience for Future Emergencies, and four from Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Buendia emphasized that the event "is a platform for science experts from abroad to give back to their homeland by contributing to its development."
In the plenary, there will also be scientists who will talk about their products that have been commercialized because of their engagement as “balik scientists.”
In addition, Buendia highlighted that the convention will serve as an opportunity for returning scientists to present the results of their engagements with the DOST in different fields, including agriculture, forestry, industry, health, energy, and emerging technologies.
Furthermore, several scientists will also share success stories of their innovations being commercialized due to their engagement as "Balik Scientists" --- highlighting the impact of their work.
Partners in development
Buendia also emphasized the role "Balik Scientists" play in national development.
"Many are helped because returning scientists become institutions in their various areas of expertise,” she said. “For example, they coordinate with policymakers and various stakeholders to explore and discuss critical issues related to science and technology innovation," she added.
The “Balik Scientists,” Buendia said, are “our development partners, not only in knowledge in science and technology, even in economics.”
MOU for scientist exchange, joint research
Meanwhile, the DOST signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) that aims to have an exchange of scientists and joint research and development, as well as training and exchange of information.
Buendia explained that the Alliance of Bioversity is integral to CGIAR Systems, a global research partnership working to reduce poverty, enhance food and nutrition security, and improve natural resources management.
The MOU was signed during the visit of DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr. to the CIAT in Columbia from Aug. 27 to 31.