Photo from Member of Parliament Aida Silongan
COTABATO CITY—The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament’s Committee on Science and Technology, chaired by Member of the Parliament (MP) Suharto Esmael, held a public consultation on June 1 in Manila, to discuss the proposed Bill No. 37 which seeks the establishment of a Bangsamoro Science High School (BSHS).
This initiative aims to elevate the quality of science education in the Bangsamoro region and provide students with a comprehensive science-focused learning environment.
MP Esmael highlighted the challenges faced by students in pursuing Science and Technology careers due to the inadequacy of science education systems in the region. He also stressed the Bangsamoro Government would address this concern by “establishing a science high school and by providing quality science and technology education.”
To gain valuable insights, experts from the Philippine Science High School and the Department of Science and Technology-Central Office were invited to the hearing to share their expertise regarding the establishment of the BSHS in BARMM.
During the hearing, several important aspects were discussed, including the development of a comprehensive curriculum, the design and construction of the school building, the provision of well-equipped laboratories, the selection of a suitable location, the recruitment and training of competent directors and teachers, financial assistance for students, and collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST).
Meanwhile, MOST Minister Engr. Aida Silongan assured everyone that all insights and suggestions provided during the hearing would be taken into consideration to expedite the establishment of BSHS and promote an inclusive science education system in the Bangsamoro region.
“The BSHS would be at parity with other science high schools to ensure competitive and quality education. On the other hand, MOST’s objective of producing Science and Technology human resources will heighten, and this future workforce will contribute positively to the region’s economic growth,” Silongan added.
The hearing received strong support from the invited experts, including Dr. Lawrence Madriaga, Director of PSHS-Main Campus, Rowena Cristina Guevara, Ph.D., former Undersecretary of DOST, and Chuchi Garganera, Regional Director of PSHS-Zamboanga Peninsula, along with other officials.
They have all expressed their full support for the establishment of the BSHS in the Bangsamoro region. (Majid Nur/BIO)
