PANABO CITY — The Braulio E. Dujali Lecture Series, launched by Davao del Norte State College’s Research, Extension, and Production (REP) Unit, invited a Balik Scientist from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to elaborate on Building Scientific Capacities in the Countryside by Discovering Natural Products for Public Health and How to be a University for Others by Bridging Skills Gaps on Scientific Capacities.
The featured lecturer was Dr. Jonel P. Saludes, Vice President for Research and Global Relations and Director of the Center for Natural Drug Discovery and Development at the University of San Agustin in Iloilo City. Dr. Saludes shared his insights on the vital role of research in addressing local health challenges and improving scientific infrastructure in the region.
Attendees included emerging and established researchers from State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) across the region. Dr. Saludes emphasized the importance of conducting research driven by societal needs and economic impacts rather than solely focusing on funding. He highlighted the development of science-based commercial products and significant findings that could inform policy recommendations.
“While securing funding is crucial, research must be motivated by the aim to solve real-world problems and achieve tangible outcomes,” Dr. Saludes noted. He also stressed the need to recruit skilled personnel to build and strengthen research centers and units.
In a roundtable discussion, Dr. Saludes further underscored the value of mentorship, stating, “It is essential to both mentor and be mentored. We must maintain a growth mindset to continually advance in our field.”
