The YES Awardees poses for a group photo with the DOST Officials during the YES Awards held in Cagayan De Oro City
Ninety-two students from 30 participating schools were given recognition for their remarkable achievements in international science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) competitions presented during the Youth Excellence in Science (YES) Awards.
Initiated by the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI), the YES Awards, aims to inspire the youth to pursue excellence in STEM and develop a deeper appreciation for science. This annual award is specifically given to student achievers in international STEM olympiads and competitions at the basic education level.
Each region has a local YES organizer that nominates qualified students and validates them by the DOST-SEI. Schools can have multiple nominees as long as they meet the qualifications but are limited to elementary until senior high school students only.
Since 2023, the YES Awards has been incorporated in the annual National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) celebration and the regional S&T fair highlighting its contribution to the advancement of science in the country, specifically fostering a culture of scientific inquiry among young Filipinos.
A generation of academically and morally excellent
“But a YES award is more than just a recognition of academic excellence, it is a symbol of our commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators who will save the future of our nation,” encouraged by Engr. Romela N. Ratilla, Regional Director of DOST Region 10.
Beyond acknowledging academic excellence, the award also promotes core scientific values such as integrity, honesty, and collaboration. The awardees are considered role models who exemplify the importance of ethical conduct and teamwork in scientific pursuits. They are also included in a roster of distinguished young scientists, creating a network of future leaders in the field of science and technology.
Christian Dave E. Balisco, a YES awardee proudly presented his Secretary’s medal and certificate to his mother during the YES awards.
Meanwhile, Dr. Jayeel Cornelio, Director of DOST-SEI redefined the meaning of excellence from Aristotle’s time and context. He raises this point to offer another perspective that excellence is not just about achievements, medals, or awards but also about being virtuous.
Dr. Jayeel Cornelio in his inspiring closing message to this year’s YES awardees.
“We are building scientists, engineers, and educators who love this nation, because only then can we change this country, hindi lang intellectually excellent but also morally excellent,” affirmed Dr. Cornelio in his closing remarks.
[“We are building scientists, engineers, and educators who love this nation, because only then can we change this country, not only intellectually excellent but also morally excellent.”]
The next YES awards will be held in Laoag City which will serve as the host for the 2025 National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW). Meanwhile, regions in the Visayas and Mindanao will hold their respective Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) events on scheduled dates. (By Kesha Shua V. Leosala and photos by Xyrus Ivan De Gracia, DOST-STII)
