CSU Holds SciTech4Dev 2017 to Promote Science for Countryside Development

The SciTech4Dev is an annual forum organized by the Caraga State University (CSU) as a venue where key stakeholders meet and exchange knowledge on the use of Science and Technology for sustainable development. Now on its third, this year’s forum is anchored on the theme “Science, Technology and Innovation towards Countryside Development.” 

“Indeed, science, technology, and innovation (STI) are essential for social progress and economic developmentin the countryside. It facilitates sustainable development and plays a critical role in fostering access to knowledge and translating S&T know-how into useful products, services, and employment. There is a need to set up innovation hubs in the regions led by academic and research institutions. Strong academic-industry linkages should be fostered to explore converging and emerging technologies to maximize benefits and minimize risks. This forum hopes to build and strengthen such linkages and networks,” says Dr. Anthony M. Penaso, President of CSU, in his written message for the participants of the SciTech4Dev 2017 forum.

Dr. Rowena P. Varela, Vice President for Research and Extension, highlighted that the interface between research and innovation with sustainable development has been tough to capture. Since Science, technology, and innovation continuously evolve, there must be a constant dialogue among the stakeholders. Thus, the SciTech4Dev 2017 Forum showcases the programs and projects in the milieu of sustainable development to the various sectors of society in need of these information and technologies. Through this forum, more meaningful engagements with industry, local government units and partner organizations on research and innovation-related programs and projects are expected. She added that the concepts of sustainable development will find best uses in Caraga Region and in the entire Mindanao if the academe, industry and the Local Government Units (LGUs)work together to achieve this goal.

CSU Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Rolando N. Paluga, also said, “There is a challenge to deal with the demands of the constantly changing modernity, and SciTech4Dev is only one of our milestones which prove that we are committed to rising to the occasion! Our sophistication in working proactively to strengthen our involvements in the promotion of scientific revolutions and technological advancements for the regional and national developments is growing and improving quickly. We do our part not only to ensure the integrity in selecting the finest research outputs and generating academic discourses in our university, but also to give everyone in our community the scholarly voice and the chance to be a force in the advancement of science and technology elsewhere.” 

On a lighter note, Dr. Armie Leila Mordeno, Vice President for Administration, sums up the feeling of all in attendance by saying, “This annual gathering depicts what synergy does when the intention and commitment of each one involved is in the path to address the University’s advocacy as vanguard of Reseach, Development and Extension (RDE) in Caraga Region and in  our country as well.”

The SciTech4Dev 2017 Forum successfully set-off, September 26-28, 2017, at the Grand Palace Hotel, Butuan City where all stakeholders from the government and industry, researchers, and students gathered. It has proposed a multi-disciplinary approach to countryside development, courtesy of its varied resource speakers. Dr. Youcef Mammeri of National Institute of Agricultural Research, France, who talked about “Mathematical Analysis of Differential Equations and Real Life Applications.” Dr. Porfirio M. Aliño of Marine Science Institute, University of the Philippines – Diliman, presented the topic “Natural Resource Management and Biodiversity Conservation.” DTI Regional Director Brielgo O. Pagaran imparted the “Initiative of DTI-Caraga in Promoting Green Economic Development in Caraga Region.” Dr. Lily Ann Lando of World Fish Philippine Country Office, DOST-PCAARRD Innovation and Technology Center, Los Baños Laguna, noted the “Education for Sustainable Development.” Dr. Johnvie Goloran of International Rice Research Institute, UP- Los Baños Laguna, stressed the need of “Soil Management for Mine Rehabilitation.” Also, Engr. Emilio Figueroa III of Agata Mining Ventures, Inc. showcased the “Academe-Industry Partnership in Promoting S&T-based Sustainable Development.” ovpre/piaea