25 Nov ASCEND Workshop Fosters Chemical Industry-Academe Partnerships for Development
The Accelerating Schools and Chemical Industry Engagements for Nurturing Development (ASCEND) Workshop, held on November 25, 2024 in Pasig City, brought together 20 participants from the industry, academe, and government to address the crucial role of workforce and labor development in the chemical sector. Organized by the DTI-Board of Investments (BOI), the event emphasized strengthening partnerships between academia and industry to enhance academic programs tailored to the industry’s needs.
Acting Director Ronnie DC Buluran highlighted the importance of such collaborations in achieving the goals set forth by the Philippine Chemical Industry Roadmap (PCIR).
After the welcoming address by AD Buluran, Engr. Albert Samuela, Vice President of SPIK, took the floor to introduce and elaborate on the current state and future trajectory of the Philippine Chemical Industry Roadmap (PCIR). This comprehensive document serves as a strategic guide for the country’s chemical industry, detailing goals, strategies, and actionable plans to enhance its competitiveness and sustainability.
The workshop showcased best practices from Mariano Marcos State University, Jared Research Center and the DOST-ITDI, with presentations on advanced biotechnology, bioenergy research, and industrial waste management. Dr. Bjorn Santos of MMSU discussed the MMSU Framework on Academe-Government-Industry-Community Linkages, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and community involvement.
Dr. David Thomas Gonzales, in contrast, presented a perspective on the dissemination of research-based concepts to industrial sectors, emphasizing the role of technology assimilation in fostering innovation and practical application of these ideas. His discussion highlighted the necessity of bridging the gap between academic innovation and industrial implementation, thereby enhancing the overall impact and relevance of scientific research.
The DOST ITDI’s Dr. Kim Christopher Aganda presented the department’s initiatives, including advanced materials development, green chemistry, industrial waste management, and pharmaceutical research. These efforts aim to bolster the country’s chemical industry through innovation and resourcefulness.
The event concluded with a focused group discussion, emphasizing the necessity of aligning academic curricula with industry demands to ensure a robust and competitive chemical sector in the Philippines. The ASCEND Workshop successfully brought together key stakeholders to explore collaborative opportunities and address challenges in the chemical industry, paving the way for a sustainable and vibrant future.
The ASCEND Working Committee successfully brought together key stakeholders to explore collaborative opportunities and address challenges in the chemical industry, paving the way for a sustainable and vibrant future.