In a joint effort to bridge the gap in research and development (R&D) in Mindanao, the Balik Scientist Program (BSP) recently conducted a consultation meeting and needs assessment in Butuan City. It was participated by 37 institutions and more than 100 attendees from Caraga, Davao, and Northern Mindanao regions.
BSP will be looking to engage experts on cutting edge technologies like omics, robotics and automation, sensors and sensing technologies, Geographic Information System (GIS), bioinformatics, and data science to help the various institutions that have eagerly signified their intent to host Balik Scientists.
“Caraga region is blessed with rich natural resources. However, for a long time, we have been a laggard and that is why we are moving to industrialize and innovate our fisheries, agroforestry, mining, and ecotourism. The BSP becomes relevant because beyond production of commodities, we need experts on value-adding activities,” said Engr. Noel M. Ajoc, Regional Director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga.
Mindanao-based participants came from higher education institutions and organizations that have been conducting R&D through the support of the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), and the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD). All three Councils implement the BSP.
According to Dr. Melvin B. Carlos, DOST-PCAARRD’s Deputy Director for Administration, Resource Management and Support Services, BSP promotes “brain gain” and accelerates knowledge-sharing by making possible working with overseas-based Filipino experts in specialized fields to infuse knowledge, skills, and scientific breakthroughs.
The consultation meeting and needs assessment was conducted by the Balik Scientist Program in partnership with DOST-Caraga and the Caraga Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (CCAARRD). It paved the way for enhanced collaboration and knowledge exchange, strengthening R&D efforts in Mindanao.
Through the continuous initiative, the program seeks to foster innovation, accelerate scientific development, and address the country's pressing challenges.