Press Release
July 14, 2011

ANGARA URGES STRONGER UNIVERSITY-INDUSTRY LINKAGE

Senator Edgardo J. Angara encouraged more academe-industry collaboration in science and technology projects, especially on research and development, to fast track economic development.

Speaking at the Technological Exposition 2011 held by the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP), Angara lauded the innovative projects of TUP students from four campuses which respond to the challenge of competitiveness.

"Universities should actively pursue R&D partnerships with industry leaders. Technology companies should incorporate academe-led programs into their major operations," stressed Angara while going through the exhibits.

Angara, chair of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, noted that Philippines ranked 95th in technological readiness and 111th in innovation in the Global Competitiveness Index 2010-2011 of the World Economic Forum.

"Strong institutional cooperation between academe and industry will enable the country to innovate and offer products that can drive our nation's economic growth," said Angara.

He cited the Congressional Commission on Science, Technology and Engineering (COMSTE), which he chairs, as a key driver of national competitiveness through S&T innovation.

"One of the things we are doing in COMSTE is strengthening our science-based education to produce a critical mass of scientists and engineers who will fuel our R&D drive," Angara said.

Dr. Gregory Tangonan, COMSTE's executive director, said that many Filipino engineers working abroad have world-class talent and skills.

"We never give ourselves credit for creating services that millions of people want," he added, citing Filipino innovations such as Pasaload and instant messaging.

Angara challenged young Filipino inventors to strive for innovations that will improve productivity and sustainability in education, health, agriculture, energy, communications and transport. "You will generate knowledge, jobs and wealth for the country in the future."

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