DOST-Surigao Norte conducts benchmarking at PAGASA
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte -- In its drive to enhance educational and scientific outreach, Department of Science and Technology - Surigao del Norte (DOST-SDN) recently spearheaded a strategic benchmarking visit to the DOST-PAGASA Planetarium in El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental.
The initiative, led by DOST-SDN Provincial Director Mariel P. Makinano, sought to gather insights and best practices in effective planetarium operations and management, aligning with efforts to bring innovative learning experiences in Surigao del Norte.
Recognizing the vital role of a space observatory and planetarium in promoting astronomical education and public understanding of science, DOST-Caraga, with the strong support of the provincial government of Surigao del Norte, is setting the Provincial Research Innovation and Science Museum (PRISM) to undergo and exciting expansion.
Slated for CY 2025, PRISM will transform into a comprehensive 5-in-1 science hub, integrating a space observatory and planetarium, to enrich PRISM’s service offerings, providing the public a gateway to explore and appreciate the universe, while solidifying its status as a premier destination for scientific learning and innovation in Caraga region.
The DOST-PAGASA Planetarium, known for its engaging and interactive approach to scientific outreach, served as an ideal model during the benchmarking visit. It provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors of all ages to explore the cosmos and develop a stronger connection to the universe.
By drawing from this example, PRISM in Surigao del Norte aims to offer a similarly dynamic experience, inspiring future generations of scientists, engineers, and innovators.
The expansion of PRISM is more than just an infrastructure upgrade — it is a visionary step towards making Surigao del Norte a regional leader in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education, innovation, and scientific research. (DOST-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
