Caraga strengthens S&T collaboration with Taiwan through immersion
By Mariesh F. Celedena
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Strengthening its science and technology (S&T) collaboration with Taiwan, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga, in partnership with the City Government of Butuan and the Philippine Science High School (PSHS), hosted a joint learning and immersion program for students from Taiwan.
Fifteen students and two faculty members from Wu-Ling Senior High School in Taoyuan City, Taiwan, and the Philippine Science High School Northern Mindanao Campus came together for an immersion program on February 2.
The activity highlighted the region’s commitment to advancing education and innovation by fostering international partnerships that provide students with direct exposure to science-based research, laboratory services, and innovation-driven initiatives.
During their visit in DOST Caraga, Regional Director Noel A. Ajoc underscored the importance of international cooperation in building strong science, technology, and innovation ecosystems. He noted that exchanges such as this help develop globally competitive learners and encourage knowledge-sharing between partner institutions.
Students were then given an immersive tour of the Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory (RSTL), led by Jennifer Dejarme. Students were able to observe laboratory testing, calibration, and quality assurance processes. The tour showcased how scientific services support product safety, protect consumers, and enhance the competitiveness of local industries in the Caraga region.
Moreover, students learned the importance of innovation across the food value chain, from product development and sensory evaluation to scientific testing and validation, especially on science-driven interventions supporting entrepreneurs, ensuring food safety, and contributing to regional development.
More than just a pursuit of science and technology, the event brought the students and faculty members to local tourism sites and cultural activities, immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Butuan City, the home of balangays.
Butuan City Mayor Lawrence Lemuel H. Fortun also expressed his optimism of this collaboration during the joint forum, saying, “This is not just an exchange program but a partnership and collaboration which perfectly portrays a balangay, which represents Butuan City’s global mindset.”
The joint immersion reflects the region’s sustained efforts to strengthen S&T ties with Taiwan, promote cross-cultural understanding, and build long-term partnerships that will help shape future scientists and innovators. (MFC, PIA Caraga with a report from DOST Caraga)