DOST XI to Equip All Davao de Oro Public Schools with Digital Science Library

February 12, 2025

by Vener Zygmond O. Rebuelta

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Department of Science and Technology – Provincial Science and Technology Office (DOST PSTO) Davao de Oro is set to equip all public schools in the province with STARBOOKS, or the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Station, the country’s first digital science library. This project, made possible through a partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) Davao de Oro, was formalized with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing attended by 393 school heads.

DOST Davao de Oro Provincial Director Mayan Inni emphasized that this initiative is a significant step toward fostering a new generation of researchers, scientists, and engineers in the province. STARBOOKS provides students and educators with offline access to thousands of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) materials, including books, journals, and instructional videos.

“This initiative is about ensuring that every student, no matter where they are, has access to quality learning resources. Through STARBOOKS, we hope to inspire more young minds to pursue careers in science and technology,” said Provincial Director, Mayan Inni.

DepEd Davao de Oro Schools Division Superintendent OIC, Ms. Phoebe Refamonte, also expressed deep appreciation for the partnership, stating that this milestone marks the beginning of a stronger collaboration with DOST to uplift learners and communities through technology-driven education.

During the event, Mr. Clint Pardilla from DOST XI provided an in-depth overview of STARBOOKS, explaining how it promotes digital learning and enhances research capabilities, especially in remote areas with limited internet connectivity. This was followed by a training session led by Mr. Nikko Pana, equipping educators with the necessary skills to maximize the platform’s benefits in their classrooms.

STARBOOKS is a flagship initiative of the DOST-Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII), designed to modernize access to scientific and technical information, particularly in underserved areas. With this latest deployment in Davao de Oro, DOST reaffirms its commitment to bridging the digital divide and empowering Filipino students through innovation in education.

Source: https://region11.dost.gov.ph/1309-dost-xi-to-equip...