No Internet, No Problem: STARBOOKS Brings Science, Technology, and Innovation to Last-Mile School

February 10, 2025

by DOST-Biliran PSTO

February 10, 2025 | Despite the inclement weather conditions in Biliran Province, nothing could hinder the commitment of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to bringing quality educational resources to the last-mile school. Braving the heavy rains and challenging road conditions, the DOST team successfully deployed its Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated KioskS (STARBOOKS) to Ungale II Elementary School. This initiative, conducted under the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program’s Human Resource Development component, aims to provide access to valuable science and technology resources to students and educators, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged schools.

The deployment and training program was attended by key stakeholders, including Ms. Luzviminda A. Flores, Kawayan District II Public School District Supervisor; Mr. Mark Joseph S. Morillo and Mr. Rommel A. Atoc, Sangguniang Bayan Members of Ungale I; and Mr. Jether E. Allegado, School-in-Charge of Ungale II Elementary School. Teachers and selected students from the school also participated in the event. Leading the DOST Biliran team were Dr. Romeo L. Dignos, Provincial Science and Technology Director (PSTD); Ms. Maria Catherine G. Maniba, Supervising Science Research Specialist; Ms. Nicka V. Salentes, Science Research Specialist I; and Ms. Gracevillalyn R. Saldo, Science Research Specialist II and STARBOOKS deployment officer for PSTO-Biliran.

During the event, the team officially turned over one (1) STARBOOKS unit to the school with the signing of Memorandum of Understanding and conducted a comprehensive hands-on training session for students and teachers. This training equipped them with the knowledge and skills to maximize the use of the digital library, ensuring its sustainable and effective utilization in daily learning activities.

STARBOOKS also known as the "library in a box," is the Philippines’ first digital science and technology library developed by DOST’s Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII). It provides offline access to a vast collection of science, technology, and innovation-related materials, including books, journals, interactive videos, and research papers. Designed to bridge the digital divide, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, STARBOOKS allows schools with limited or no internet connectivity to access a wealth of educational resources essential for academic development. Additionally, STARBOOKS has developed new features such as inclusion of simulators and artificial intelligence (AI) functionalities into its platform.

As a last-mile school, Ungale II Elementary School faces significant challenges in accessing quality educational materials due to its remote location and limited infrastructure. The deployment of STARBOOKS addresses this gap by providing students and teachers with an invaluable digital learning tool that promotes independent learning and research.

Through STARBOOKS, students can explore various science and technology subjects, enhancing their curiosity and engagement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. Teachers, on the other hand, gain access to a repository of instructional materials that support their lesson planning and delivery. This initiative not only cultivates a culture of science and technology but also encourages students to pursue careers in STEM fields, contributing to the nation’s pool of future scientists, engineers, and innovators.

The deployment of STARBOOKS at Ungale II Elementary School is part of DOST’s ongoing efforts to promote science, technology, and innovation in rural communities. By providing access to critical educational resources, DOST empowers learners in last-mile schools, ensuring that no student is left behind in the pursuit of knowledge and scientific advancement.

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