The University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV), together with the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST – SEI), National Science Consortium (NSC), and University of Santo Tomas (UST), hosted the two-day 14th Accelerated Science and Technology Human Resource Development Program (ASTHRDP) Graduate Scholars’ Conference on September 17-18 at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel, Iloilo City.
With the theme, “Science and Technology that works for the people,” the conference featured plenary sessions, oral presentations, and poster presentations highlighting how science and technology can address community needs and generate a societal impact.
UPV Chancellor Clement C. Camposano welcomed guests and participants. DOST Western Visayas Regional Director Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, represented by Ms. Desiree Faith N. Sy, gave his message of support to the 14th ASTHRDP Graduate Scholars’ Conference.
DOST-SEI Deputy Director Engr. Albert G. Marino delivered the opening remarks. He reflected that, “science is not only discovery; it is service. Its value is found in how knowledge helps us make better decisions, uplift communities, and build a better future.”
The UPV Cultural Dance troupe, champion of the 3rd Saot Ilonggo Dance Research Competition, performed their winning dance known as Sadsad Ilongg, showcasing their talent and artistry.
The keynote speaker, DOST Sec. Renato U. Solidum Jr., was introduced by UPV Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and UPV ASTHDRP Project Leader Dr. Alice Joan G. Ferrer.
In his keynote speech, Sec. Solidum encouraged DOST-SEI scholars to use science, technology, and innovation that respond to societal needs in which people and the community may benefit from.
A ribbon cutting marked the opening of the poster exhibit, showcasing the research and innovations of the participating scholars. This was followed by presentations of the plenary speakers who shared their stories and experiences in utilizing science and technology to respond to community needs and create a meaningful impact: Engr. Auke Idzenga; Engr. Eleanor M. Olegario; Mr. Iliac Angelo; Mr. Rex De Justo and Ms. Juafe M, Abareles; Ms. Rebecca C. Tubongbanua and Mr. Allen Daryl F. Asuelo; Mr. Ismael Bagonoc and Ms. Marlin A. Muyana; and Engr. Sheila L. Oberio.
During the panel discussion, questions directed to the plenary speakers were on how they developed their technologies and the challenges they encountered.
The afternoon session of the first day and the morning of the second day featured oral parallel sessions covering four categories of agricultural and environmental sciences; biological and health sciences; physical sciences; and mathematical and computational sciences. The two-day conference concluded with a closing program and awarding of winners.
The following universities compose the National Science Consortium (NSC): Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU), Central Luzon State University (CLSU), De La Salle University (DLSU), Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD), University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), University of the Philippines Manila (UPM), University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV), University of San Carlos (USC), University of Santo Tomas (UST-M), and Visayas State University (VSU).
The 14th ASTHRDP Graduate Scholars’ Conference serves as a venue for nearly 400 graduate scholars, faculty members, and mentors to showcase their research and to collaborate and exchange ideas on recent developments in science and technology.
The ASTHRD Program, implemented through the National Science Consortium, is a scholarship program of DOST-SEI that supports graduate studies in science and technology fields.
Written by Mary Arvic Dolendo, IPO
Photos by Gian Genoveza and Alven T. Polido, IPO
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