Claire Bernadette A. Mondares, DOST-STII
A group of researchers and experts from the Department of Science and Technology-Industrial Technology and Development Institute (DOST-ITDI) has taken on a two-day seminar workshop to improve their communication skills further.
Through the Science Journo Ako advocacy program initiated by the DOST-Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII), 50 information officers, including the administrative staff, underwent science communication training on March 5-6, 2025, at the KM-STICA hall in Bicutan, Taguig City.
The training aims to capacitate the participants in producing comprehensive stories to share their Research and Development (R&D) programs and promote the technologies developed by each Division.
Deputy Director of the DOST-ITDI, Dr. Janet F. Quizon, said that their agency is committed to advancing and enhancing the capabilities of its personnel to keep up with the rapidly evolving technology sector, especially in communications.
“I am confident this initiative will empower our communicators with the essential knowledge and skills to write compelling science stories, news articles, and press releases that can connect to our target audience”, Quizon said.
During the first day of training, the participants were able to learn the basic principles of writing science news and feature articles through the module Communicating Science through News and Feature Writing and the Basic Photography and Photojournalism.
To further establish a good foundation on their basic knowledge, the participants also gained insights on the Editorial Style Guide that the DOST-STII follows in publishing content. They were also introduced to the importance of crafting their own Communication Plan.
The DOST-ITDI is one of the research and development institutes of the DOST and is mandated to undertake multidisciplinary industrial R&D, technical services, and knowledge translation or technology transfer and commercialization.
Each of the 11 divisions of the agency was well represented during the seminar. This includes the Chemicals and Energy Division, Environment and Biotechnology Division, Food Processing Division, Material Science Division, Packaging Technology Division, National Metrology Division, Standards and Testing Division, Technical Services Division, and even the Administrative Division.
Snaps during the first day of the Science Journo Ako training workshop held at KM-STICA hall on March 5, 2025.
(Photo by Patrick James Lee C. Alfonso, DOST-STII)
