DOST-13 introduces iSTART to legislature of Surigao Norte
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte -- In an ongoing effort to drive innovation across local governance, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga, through its Provincial Science and Technology Office in Surigao del Norte, recently introduced the program on Innovation, Science, and Technology for Accelerating Regional Technology-based Development (iSTART) to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Surigao del Norte.
Presided over by Vice Governor Eddie D. Gokiangkee Jr., the session focused on integrating science, technology, and innovation (STI) into the province’s strategic development plans and frameworks.
The presentation commenced with DOST-SDN Director Mariel P. Makinano, showcasing DOST’s ongoing interventions in the province. Highlighting key initiatives, Dir. Makinano emphasized the transformative impact of projects such as technologies for smart and sustainable communities, agriculture, food innovation, product development, and education, among others.
“These interventions have already set the foundation for transformative progress in the province,” said Nole Kristoffer Laganga, senior science research specialist of DOST-SDN as he took the lead in presenting the iSTART.
The program on iSTART is a strategic initiative designed to align DOST’s programs and projects with local development plans, promoting balanced regional growth through STI. One of the program's primary objectives is to assist local government units (LGUs) in crafting technology-based development plans for sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors.
By engaging researchers, scientists, and engineers in the planning process, iSTART also aims to attract new technology-based investments in collaboration with LGUs.
“The iSTART program will prioritize the creation of STI-based programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) that align with the province’s overall development goals,” Laganga explained.
He further highlighted the program’s plan to actively engage state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the province's development efforts.
The program encouraged collaboration with researchers, scientists, and engineers, particularly from SUCs, to ensure that PPAs are research-driven and tailored for maximum impact. Given the successful implementation of DOST’s programs and projects in Surigao del Norte, the potential of iSTART to accelerate the province’s development is promising.
Meanwhile, the provincial officials expressed their strong support for the program, with Vice Governor Gokiangkee emphasizing its significance. The program’s success, he added, lies in integrating STI into relevant aspects of the planning, making it clear which technologies are needed and how research and development (R&D) from local institutions can contribute to Surigao del Norte’s broader vision.
By leveraging STI in local governance, iSTART positions Surigao del Norte at the forefront of innovation-led growth, ensuring that future initiatives address both the immediate and long-term development needs of the province. As the program progresses, DOST will engage experts based on the specific needs of the LGU, ensuring that each intervention is tailored to local realities.
DOST’s continued collaboration with the provincial government and the academic community ensured that the region will benefit from cutting-edge science and technology initiatives, building a future where innovation drives sustainable growth and development. (DOST- Surigao del Norte/PIA- Surigao del Norte)
