DOST trains entrepreneurs in Surigao Norte on product dev’t
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – Surigao del Norte, through its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) conducted a technology training dubbed “From Concept to Creation: Key Trends in Product Development and Innovation” on August 14 at the conference room, Engineering Building, LGU Claver, Tayaga, Claver, Surigao del Norte.
The training engaged the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the emerging trends on food product development and broadened their perspectives on innovation.
With the expertise of Dr. Mariero H. Gawat, S&T fellow II of DOST Caraga, the participants including SETUP beneficiaries and MSMEs from Bacuag, Claver, Gigaquit, and Surigao City, all in Surigao del Norte enhanced their understanding of how innovation can improve product quality, safety, and market competitiveness, while also building their capabilities through practical techniques on increasing market readiness and commercial potential of their food products.
DOST Provincial Director Mariel Makinano said, “The activity was made possible through the active collaboration and support of LGU Claver, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte through the Negosyo Centers in Claver and Bacuag, and the continued partnership with People’s Organizations and assistance of Platinum Group Metals Corporation (PGMC), Tag-anito HPAL Corporation (THPAL) and Tag-anito Mining Corporation (TMC).”
“Through this initiative, local enterprises in Surigao del Norte are encouraged to embrace new technologies, apply best practices, improve their product development processes, and transform innovative concepts into commercially viable products,” she added.
Grace, a local entrepreneur, felt grateful for the training that provided an opportunity to elevate her food business. “Through this training, I realized that there are many opportunities that I can explore to improve my food business and reach a wider market.”
“With DOST’s help and support on innovation like upgrading our equipment, among others, local businesses will have a chance to improve our products and make them competitive,” she added.
The DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program is a nationwide strategy encouraging and assisting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to adopt technological innovations to improve their products, services, operations and increase their productivity and competitiveness.
This activity served as a tangible proof of how DOST brought down this national strategy to the provinces and made it inclusive to all MSMEs. (SDR. PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from DOST-SDN)
