The Department of Science and Technology – Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII) received a significant boost for its Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly-Operated KioskS (STARBOOKS) project through a generous donation of Php 2.1 million from BPI Foundation, Inc (BPIFI).
The turnover ceremony, held on April 11, 2024, at DOST-STII, marked a milestone in enhancing science, technology, and innovation (STI) education in thirty (30) remote schools across the Philippines.
Key representatives from DOST-STII and BPI Foundation, including Director Richard P. Burgos, DOST-STII Information Resources and Analysis Division (IRAD) Chief Alan C. Taule, STARBOOKS Unit Head Marievic V. Narquita, and BPIFI officials, gathered for the ceremony, graced by the presence of DOST Undersecretary for Scientific and Technical Services Maridon O. Sahagun.
Director Richard P. Burgos highlighted the significance of public-private collaborations in driving educational change. “This is a strong testament to public-private partnership,” said Dir. Burgos on the pivotal role of STARBOOKS in democratizing access to information.
Usec. Sahagun extended appreciation to the BPI Foundation for its support in advancing science and technology education, emphasizing the impact of the donation on last-mile schools. “We are indeed very happy with this partnership as this serves as a testament to our ongoing commitment to enhance the learning experiences,” she remarked.
In addition to the donation, the BPI Foundation contributed to STARBOOKS’ database with “FinEd Unboxed,” aiming to promote financial literacy in communities.
STARBOOKS, a flagship program of DOST-STII, utilizes digital technology to provide comprehensive STI learning materials to remote areas, fostering innovation and scientific inquiry. The donation will empower students in thirty (30) schools to explore the world of science, technology, and innovation.
IRAD Chief Taule expressed gratitude, assuring the continuation of mutual goals and objectives for the project. The donation initially provided computer sets to selected schools, including Alitagtag Senior High School and San Felipe Elementary School in Calabarzon.
The list of school beneficiaries includes Pantabangan West Integrated School, Dueg Resettlement Elementary School, Lauis National High School, and many others across the Philippines.
Usec. Sahagun concluded with a commitment to providing free and accessible S&T-related information, furthering the advocacy of financial literacy, and empowering individuals, institutions, and communities with essential knowledge and resources.
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