The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – Science and Technology Information Institute, DOST MIMAROPA, and the BPI Foundation led the turnover ceremony of information and technology equipment to schools in Odiongan, Romblon catering to students with Special Needs Education (SNED).
The beneficiaries of the program include Odiongan North Central Elementary School, Odiongan South Central Elementary School, and Odiongan National High School.
The donated equipment is part of DOST-STII's STARBOOKS (Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Stations) program. STARBOOKS is a digital library designed to provide access to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) resources, particularly in remote and underserved areas with limited or no internet connectivity.
According to DOST Romblon Provincial Director Marcelina Servañez, the initiative initially started with a small fund from their office and later expanded with additional support from DOST-STII and the BPI Foundation.
Servañez emphasized that the additional equipment will benefit not only SNED students but also those in other academic programs within the schools.
“Looking forward doon sa paggamit ng ating STARBOOKS para mas ma-inspire kayo na pumunta kayo sa larangan na kayo ay maging future engineers, future scientists, at future researchers,” she added.
Aside from the IT equipment—three tablets, a computer, a TV, a Wi-Fi router, and a printer—BPI Foundation also donated school supplies to all students in the beneficiary schools.
In an interview, Reynante Lorenzo, principal of Odiongan North Central Elementary School, expressed his gratitude and optimism about how the new equipment will benefit their students.
“Marami siyang maitutulong in education at ‘yung manipulation ng mga bata ay ma-enhance talaga,” Lorenzo said.
He also thanked DOST for selecting their school as one of the beneficiaries of the agency’s digitalization program, emphasizing how it will help bridge the digital divide and enhance learning opportunities for their students.
With the integration of STARBOOKS, students will now have access to a vast collection of educational resources that can help improve their learning experience, research skills, and exposure to science and technology.
DOST continues to expand the STARBOOKS program nationwide, bringing digital education solutions to more schools and communities, ensuring that even those in the most remote areas can benefit from modern learning opportunities. (PJF/PIA MIMAROPA-Romblon)
