In the past, SEARCA has had sporadic collaborations with DOST, including those with its precursor, the National Science and Development Board (NSDB). NSDB funded a nationwide program called the Social Laboratory, a strategy for rural and agricultural development carried out in partnership with higher education institutions (HEIs) to uplift the socioeconomic conditions of rural farming communities.
Dr. Saguiguit said "in view of the changing landscape of agriculture and SEARCA's focus on promoting inclusive and sustainable agricultural and rural development (ISARD), it is imperative that we look to S&T in order to produce more from less."
He underscored that it is toward this end that SEARCA is exploring possibilities to collaborate with DOST on agricultural R&D and capacity building initiatives, including said scholarships for advanced studies on climate change. (Leah Lyn D. Domingo)
