DUMAGUETE CITY, Dec. 3 (PIA) -- About 600 students participated online in the scientific social survey and solar power energy through a virtual symposium organized by the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST).

Dubbed as "ScienTeach: A Virtual Symposium for the Youth of Dumaguete City," this is the 4th ScienTeach online symposium conducted by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Department of Education (DepEd).

NAST President and Academician Rhodora Azanza said the event aims to promote science and technology, bring the scientists closer to the youth, and inspire and encourage the students to pursue a career in science.

ScienTeach is a series of episodes that will showcase varying topics featuring the NAST members and awardees who are accomplished in their specific fields though online platforms.

Engr. Jesus Zamora, Jr., OIC Regional Director of DOST-7 shared how DOST is helping communities through the Community Empowerment Thru Science and Technology (CEST).

Zamora also shared how the agency is helping the micro, small and medium enterprises become more productive and competitive through the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).

Zamora encouraged the students to pursue S&T courses and avail of the scholarship programs of the agency.

Meanwhile, academician Christopher Monterola shared his thoughts on why students should pursue science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) now.

He said industry 4.0 is heavily STEM as digital transformation is fuelled by STEM professionals, and data scientists are now paid higher than lawyers as STEM is the center of growth and innovation of business.

He also stressed the importance of data science to make data-driven projects with industry, government, and organizations.

Monterola said data science can be used in electricity demand forecasting, retail merchandising analytics, developing credit-scoring system, and market opportunity expansion, among others.

Student-participants were from Ramon Teves Pastor Memorial Dumaguete Science High School, Dumaguete City National High School, Piapi High School, Junob National High School, Taclobo National High School, Camanjac National High School and Hermegilda F. Gloria Memorial High School.

Students from the private schools also attended the virtual symposium, including junior and senior high school students from St. Paul University Dumaguete, Silliman University, Holy Cross High School, Saint Louis School-Don Bosco of Dumaguete, Catherina Cittadini School and Colegio de Santa Catalina de Alejandria.

Also in attendance were senior high school students from Asian College-Dumaguete, Metro Dumaguete College, and STI College.

Academician Mahar Mangahas also shared his expertise on social scientific surveys and how students can make a DIY scientific social survey.

"A scientific social survey is a basic resource for social science inquiry," said Managahas.

On the other hand, National Scientist Raul Fabella gave a presentation on solar PV technology and how it can contribute to a resilient and sustainable economy.

At the end of his presentation, he encouraged the students and teachers to be a voice in their respective communities for the switch towards renewables. (jct/PIA7 Negros Oriental with reports from Engr. Reinhold Jek Abing of DOST)