‘Architects of the future’ : DOST highlights youth’s role on innovation

‘Let the festival of innovation and inspiration begin!”

These were the words of Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. as he officially welcomed the student participants during the vibrant opening of the 2024 National Youth Science, Technology and Innovation Festival (NYSTIF).

Upholding it’s commitment to promoting science and technology (S&T)  among the youth, DOST launched the 2024 NYSTIF on September 18, at the Philippine International Convention Center Forum Tent in Pasay City. This marks the second year of the youth STI festival, which started in 2023.

Themed “STEM VIBE: Engaging the Youth in  Providing Solutions and Opening Opportunities,” this science festival aims to enhance youth appreciation and awareness of science, technology, and innovation (STI). It will also allow the youth to experience science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in a vibrant, innovative, brilliant, and engaging (VIBE) way to inspire them to pursue careers in these fields.

In her opening remarks, DOST Undersecretary for Scientific and Technical Services Marion O. Sahagun described the science festival as a transformative movement that will empower the  youth to embrace their role as “architect of the future” through STI.

“Today we highlight the power of our youth to make innovative approaches to problem-solving, recognize the capabilities through the various competitions, and allow them to learn and appreciate science through fun and exciting activities featured in our exhibits , seminars, and even a fashion event. The various events capture how STEM should be from the perspective of our youth – vibrant, innovativeness, and engaging,” she said.

In his keynote address, Sec. Solidum emphasized STI’s pivotal  role in addressing complex global challenges and shaping a brighter, more inclusive future.

Acknowledging the youth’s drive, enthusiasm, and commitment to making a meaningful change, the science chief noted that one easy way today’s youth can engage wit STI is through entrepremeurship. He highlighted that even young students have the potential to develop practical and beneficial solutions to various societal issues.

“You are a generation that doesn’t just talk about causes you care about,you take action,” he said. “It is our hope that this festival will open your eyes to your very crucial role in STI in the Philippines, and also to the various ways that the DOST and our NYSTIF partners are providing support for your success.”

Other speakers who graced the opening ceremony with their messages includes Engr. Mark Kennedy E. Bantugon, the CEO and President of Pili Adheseal Inc., and Atty Dionisio Graciano, who represented Department of Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” M. Angara.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official inauguration of the festival’s tech exhibits, which showcased  the STI achievements of DOST and its attached agencies. These exhibits featured innovations that create Oppurtunities for the youth and provide solutions for economic growth and quality education.

The four-day science festival will run from September 18-21 , 2024 with fun gmes and interactive activities, covering various STI topics, including block chain technology, science communication, metrology, textile technology, data analytics, food and nutrition, 3D printing, and the science and art of leaves.(By Rudy P. Parel Jr, DOST-STII)