Bakit nga ba tila kulang ang scientists sa Pilipinas? | Need To Know

Summary

The transcript highlights the challenges faced by the Philippine scientific community, including a low number of researchers, brain drain, and systemic barriers. It discusses the government's efforts to promote science education, increase funding, and attract Filipino scientists abroad back to the country through programs like the Balik Scientist Program. Despite progress, issues such as limited job progression and bureaucracy remain. The need for more trained scientists to address pressing global problems is emphasized, alongside a call for a supportive environment to foster scientific innovation and collaboration.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Philippines has a significantly lower number of researchers per million people compared to neighboring countries, indicating a need for more scientists.
• 😀 Scientific research is essential for innovation across various sectors, including technology, health, and climate change.
• 😀 There's a continuous outflow of scientists from the Philippines seeking better opportunities abroad, contributing to brain drain.
• 😀 The Philippine government is increasing funding for research and development to attract and retain local scientists.
• 😀 Initiatives like the Balik Scientist Program encourage Filipino scientists abroad to return and contribute to the local scientific community.
• 😀 Challenges such as limited resources, bureaucracy, and delayed salaries hinder scientific progress in the Philippines.
• 😀 There's a concerted effort to promote STEM education among the youth, making science engaging and fun.
• 😀 The number of researchers in the Philippines has nearly doubled between 2015 and 2018, showing positive growth in the field.
• 😀 The country faces a shortage of qualified science teachers, leading to unspecialized instruction in schools.
• 😀 Building a supportive environment for scientists is crucial for retaining talent and addressing the country's scientific needs.

Q & A

What is the current state of R&D personnel in the Philippines compared to neighboring countries?

As of 2018, the Philippines had around 708 R&D personnel per million people, which is significantly lower than Singapore's over 7,000, Malaysia's 2,000, and Thailand's 1,800.

Why is there a need for more scientists in the Philippines?

The country needs scientists to drive innovation, address problems, and improve critical thinking skills, which are essential for advancing technology, managing natural resources, and tackling climate change.

What are some barriers to practicing science in the Philippines?

Barriers include limited resources, failing infrastructure, bureaucracy, and delays in salary payments for scientists.

What initiatives has the Philippine government taken to support science and technology?

The government has increased the budget for research and development, established the Philippine Science High School, and expanded scholarship programs for students pursuing STEM fields.

What is the Balik Scientist Program?

Established in 1975 and revised in 2018, this program encourages Filipino scientists with advanced degrees abroad to return to the Philippines to contribute their expertise.

How successful has the Balik Scientist Program been?

As of 2022, the program had encouraged 592 scientists to return to the Philippines, resulting in 759 engagements across 16 regions.

What are the educational initiatives aimed at improving science education in the Philippines?

Initiatives include providing scholarships for science students and training for teachers in both public and private schools to enhance STEM education.

How has the number of researchers in the Philippines changed in recent years?

The number of researchers increased from 20,239 in 2015 to 37,701 in 2018, indicating significant growth in the research sector.

What challenges do scientists face that contribute to brain drain in the Philippines?

Challenges include limited job progression, unspecialized teaching staff, and systemic issues that make it difficult for scientists to thrive domestically.

What is the significance of the phrase 'Ask not what your country could do for you, but ask what you could do for your country' in this context?

This phrase emphasizes the importance of patriotism and encourages Filipino scientists to contribute to their home country, despite challenges.