TO DEVELOP a mentoring program for researchers, the Department of Science and Technology collaborated with the Philippine-American Academy of Science and Engineering.

DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña said the two institutions agreed to formulate a training program aligned with the agency’s Research and Development Leadership initiative.

The program aims to strengthen the capabilities of researchers in higher education institutions and research and development institutes.

“Under this proposed mentoring program, young and new generation of researchers may be matched with PAASE members based here and abroad for specific research projects,” De la Peña said.

“Likewise, through the Balik-Scientist program, PAASE members’ expertise could also be tapped in the development and implementation of research programs and projects in the country,” he added.

PAASE members could also play a vital role in the planned establishment of the Virology Science and Technology Institute of the Philippines, which is eyed to serve as the premier R&D arm of the country in the field of virology.

Officials of the DOST and PAASE met on March 15, 2021 to discuss other possible areas of cooperation, such as the latter’s engagement in the review of DOST programs, R&D proposals, and scientific papers.

The two agencies signed a memorandum of understanding for institutional cooperation in areas of mutual interest in science and technology.