by: Zen Lee D. Foryasen
The University of the Cordilleras’ Innovation and Technology Transfer Office (UC-InTTO) made a significant impact at the 2023 Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW) for the Cordillera Administrative Region, held from September 27 to 29 at the Abra Gymnasium and ASIST Function Hall in Bangued, Abra.
Leading the UC delegation was Dr. Thelma D. Palaoag, Director of UC-InTTO and Assistant Professor at the College of Information Technology and Computer Science. Accompanied by UC-InTTO members and representatives from the Technological Consortium for Awareness, Readiness, and Advancement of Knowledge in Innovation (TARAKI), the team highlighted projects aiming to leverage green technology for climate change-adaptive agriculture in the region.
UC-InTTO set up an interactive booth featuring its flagship initiatives: Project Sunshare, TARAKI, and Imahe Labs. These projects showcase the university’s commitment to innovative solutions addressing pressing societal issues, particularly in sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.
“Participating in the RSTW allows us to share our work and collaborate with other institutions dedicated to technological advancement in the Cordilleras,” Dr. Palaoag said. “Our projects focus on practical applications that can help our communities adapt to climate change.”
The RSTW, celebrated annually in each Philippine region, serves as a platform for showcasing scientific and technological endeavors. This year’s theme “Siyensya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan” (Science, Techonology, and Innovation: Partners in a Stable, Prosperous, and Secure Future) emphasized green, innovative technologies tailored for climate-resilient agriculture—a critical concern for the mountainous Cordillera region.
The event gathered participants from various academic institutions, government agencies, and private organizations. It featured workshops, seminars, and networking sessions aimed at fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
UC-InTTO’s participation underscores the University of the Cordilleras’ dedication to driving innovation and promoting sustainable practices. By focusing on technologies that address real-world problems, the university aims to make a tangible impact on regional development.
“We are optimistic about the potential partnerships and collaborations that can emerge from this event,” Dr. Palaoag added. “Working together, we can advance science and technology in ways that benefit our communities.”
The RSTW in the Cordilleras highlighted the region’s growing emphasis on integrating technology with traditional practices to create resilient and sustainable solutions. UC-InTTO’s engagement reflects a broader commitment to fostering innovation that aligns with environmental stewardship and societal needs.
As the event concluded, participants expressed enthusiasm for future initiatives that build on the connections made during the week. The collective efforts showcased at the RSTW signal a promising direction for science and technology in the Cordillera Administrative Region.
