John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod, represented by C/E JONI GAN, BSMarE Program Head, and 3/E PAUL OLIMPOS, Faculty, College of Maritime Education, was delighted to participate in the Symposium-Workshop on Mobilizing Universities and Colleges for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Problem Solving, held in Iloilo City on April 24-25, 2024. Hosted by the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) in collaboration with DOST Regional Offices VI, VII, and VIII, this event marked a pivotal moment for academia in the Philippines.
Driving Change Locally and Regionally
The primary objective of this gathering, organized under the auspices of the Future Earth Philippines (FEP) program, was to convene State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) from Regions VI, VII, and VIII. Together, participants engaged in constructive dialogues aimed at analyzing local and regional challenges. The overarching goal was to devise strategic pathways to address key issues crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Embracing Mission Science for Sustainability
Acknowledging society’s complex problems, the scientific community emphasized the imperative of transcending traditional boundaries. Moving away from working in silos, a transdisciplinary and inclusive approach involving communities and Local Government Units (LGUs) was advocated. This paradigm shift, termed “Mission Science for Sustainability,” underscores the necessity of collaborative efforts in tackling real-world challenges.
Establishing Universities SDG Action Networks
Moreover, the NAST-FEP initiative seeks to galvanize academic institutions into action by establishing Universities SDG Action Networks (USAN) within the three regions represented. Through these collaborative networks, SUCs and HEIs are poised to align their core functions—including teaching, research and development, and extension work—with the SDGs. By doing so, they aim to amplify their societal impact and contribute meaningfully to the global sustainability agenda. — PTO/04/26/2024