DOST chief urges scientists to focus on market needs, collaborate with businesses

Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. is urging scientists to focus on developing solutions that address stakeholders' needs and collaborate with businesses for lasting impact.

Solidum emphasized during an interview with the Philippine News Agency that scientists should prioritize what the market demands rather than seeking potential beneficiaries after creating a solution, highlighting the importance of stakeholder needs.

He highlighted DOST's role in providing funding, connecting scientists with businesses, and introducing them to investors to ensure their innovations are commercialized, particularly through initiatives like the PROPEL program launched last December.

Solidum expressed satisfaction with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s support for the science and technology sector, noting that government decisions should be science-based and that DOST's budget is increasing.

For this year, DOST will focus on eight priority areas including artificial intelligence virtual hubs, quantum computing capacity enhancement, smart agriculture development, geospatial science in disaster risk reduction, urban planning, environmental management, industry 4.0 programs, and biologics exploration in pharmaceuticals.