DOST Region I introduces CEST Program to Adams, Ilocos Norte

Posted on 03/23/2022 10:49 am
DOST Region I introduces CEST Program to Adams, Ilocos Norte image

The Department of Science and Technology Regional Office I (DOST-I) held a consultative meeting with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Adams, Ilocos Norte, and other agency partners to formulate plans and strategies related to the conduct of the DOST’s Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (CEST) Program. The project is titled “Engaging Local Communities with Science, Technology, and Innovation for Development” was formally sealed on 7 March 2022.

In attendance during the meeting were Hon. Rosalia D. Dupagen, the Municipal Mayor of Adams and representatives from the LGU, Prof. Bella Herbacio from Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) and DOST-Provincial Science and Technology Center (PSTC) Ilocos Norte Director Benjamin S. Mercado Jr., and his team. 

DOST-I Regional Director Dr. Armando Q. Ganal said, "I hope you will all appreciate and embrace the program that will be implemented in your respective areas."

With the implementation of the CEST project, residents in these impacted areas can increase their productivity by maximizing the use of existing resources to their economic advantage; providing health and nutrition interventions, and improving S&T learning.

Furthermore, Mr. Decth-1180 P. Libunao, CEST project leader, presented the project description and objectives for implementing the CEST program in selected sitios of Adams, Ilocos Norte, and requested that partner State University and Colleges help form a core group or pool of experts from their institution.

The meeting resulted in an agreement for the conduct of a Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA) in their communities, as well as the establishment of schedules and processes.

The RRA will assess community assets, needs, and opportunities in order to develop appropriate technological interventions for the municipality that has been identified. (By Jerwin M. Ramos, DOST-I)

DOST-I Regional Director Dr. Armando Q. Ganal gives an overview of how the Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology program can benefit disadvantaged communities in areas of education, health and nutrition, enterprise development, sanitation, and disaster risk reduction and management. 

Category: PRESS RELEASE