In hopes of preparing students and youth to be more updated in technology and innovations, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the multinational company 3M Philippines, Inc. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding.
The signing of the MoU is led by DOST Secretary Prof. Fortunato De La Peña and 3M Phils. Inc., President & Managing Director Ariel Lacsamana. This collaboration is expected to fully benefit the target students and youth, as well as the Filipinos, and especially the Philippines.
Secretary dela Peña hopes that this partnership with 3M would greatly benefit the country. He expressed his gratefulness to the company, saying that “this collaboration is important, urgent, and timely.”
Lacsamana said that he is very thankful for the opportunity to work with the government, especially the DOST.
3M Phils., Inc., is a science and technology innovation company, that takes pride in their advanced technology, research, and as a multinational company.
As a manufacturing company, 3M is into retail market center (hardware, bookstore/office/pharmacy, mass market, and general trade), industrial market (automotive & transportation, general industrial and metal & woodworking), infrastructure, construction and energy markets (energy & safety, building & construction, and infrastructure market).
Lacsamana stressed that “it is great that we could be aligned with DOST to improve the lives of the Filipino people.”
This partnership is effective for five (5) years and can benefit students from Science high schools around the country, and students in Grade 11 & 12 in the STEM strand. While teachers and faculties will benefit as well from training centers.
Projects included in the MoU are joint student research with mentors from 3M and renowned researchers; science immersions; access to 3M offices, plants, and their science equipment; and co-training and co-development with students and DOST.
Furthermore, one of the emphasized projects is the food processing centers and training. This targets regions across the Philippines which aims to encourage and support local products.
As well as proper education regarding food handling, food safety (microbiology), and processing. Which Lacsamana hope that through this project, “it’s making sure that technology can reach the regions.”
While there is a long way to go and many projects are needed, La Peña and Lacsamana hope that this partnership would also encourage other corporations to collaborate with government agencies.
Not only because to fulfill the company or corporations’ social responsibilities but with the vision of helping the Filipinos and the Philippines for a better life. (Ehlorra Mangahas)
