THE DEPARTMENT of Science and Technology returned P1.7 billion unused scholarship fund to the National Treasury.

This was confirmed by Senator Francis Tolentino during the deliberations on the proposed 2023 budget of DOST.

Tolentino, sponsor of DOST’s budget, said that the amount was accummulated unused fund for the scholarship for science students who decided not to continue with their course over the years.

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel encouraged the DOST to implement measures that not only encourage scholars to take up science courses and finish the program.

At the same time, Tolentino admitted that there is a need to expand the concept of Philippine Science High School.

During the deliberations on the proposed budget of the DOST, Tolentino, sponsor of the budget, stressed the need for Pisay to adopt a local science high school in every region or province.

This aims to encourage more youth and students to take up Science courses for the country to develop the culture of science in the country.

“We need to boost the science culture through science education and industry application,” Tolentino said as he also stressed the need to ensure the availability of applicable jobs for science graduates.