The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Aklan, together with the Aklan State University (ASU) recently turned over advanced learning tools for science, mathematics, and research to Maria Cristina Integrated School and Medina Integrated School in Madalag, Aklan.

The initiative is part of the “Empowering Akeanon-Bukidnon Communities through Science and Technology (EAST) Initiatives” Project implemented by ASU through DOST’s Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (CEST) Program. The project targets the priority needs of the Akeanon-Bukidnon indigenous communities in Barangays Medina and Maria Cristina in Madalag, Aklan.  

Recognizing the challenge of limited connectivity and resources in the Akeanon-Bukidnon communities, with the EAST Initiatives, learning tools were deployed including the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosks (STARBOOKS), DOST Courseware for Grades 1-8, and MAKEroscope. 

STARBOOKS is a DOST-developed offline digital library that contains a wide range of science and technology (S&T) resources in text, audio, and video formats, giving students and teachers access to learning materials even without an internet connection.

Complementing this is the DOST Courseware, a stand-alone interactive application and self-learning material for Science and Mathematics, designed to enhance classroom instruction. The schools also received the MAKEroscope, a portable and affordable alternative to a light compound microscope, enabling science exploration even with limited resources. 

This intervention comes at a critical time for Philippine education. According to the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results released by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), 15-year-old Filipino learners score below average in science and mathematics. Only 16% of students attained the minimum proficiency level in mathematics, compared to the 69% average among OECD countries. Similarly, only 23% met the basic proficiency in science, compared to the OECD average of 76%. 

By bringing these tools directly to the Akeanon-Bukidnon learners, DOST and ASU hope to bridge learning gaps in science and mathematics, promote inclusive access to science and technology, and foster critical thinking and STEM capabilities among students. (VMMPoncedeLeon, MDVillanueva/ DOST Aklan; Photos by: MDVillanueva/ DOST Aklan)

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is the country’s premier agency for science, technology, and innovation, providing direction and leadership in the Philippines. Through strategic policies and programs, DOST ensures that S&T drives national development—delivering solutions and opportunities that maximize economic and social benefits for every Filipino.

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