PALO, LEYTE — Setting the stage for youth empowerment, civic engagement, and science-driven nation-building, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) scholars from across Eastern Visayas officially convened at The Tropics in Palo, Leyte, for Day 0 of the 2026 Scholars Leadership Camp (SLC).
Organized under the auspices of the DOST Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) and the regional science office, the multi-day leadership gathering brings together student-leaders, academic achievers, and young researchers representing universities and colleges across Leyte, Samar, Biliran, and Southern Leyte.
Kickstarting The Journey Of Leadership And Service
Day 0 marked the official arrival, delegate registration, and welcome orientation for the incoming cohort of scholar-participants. The camp provides an immersive environment designed to nurture the core values of professional excellence, social responsibility, and servant leadership among science and technology scholars.
Throughout the week-long program, delegates will engage in interactive modules, team-building exercises, dynamic panel discussions, and mentorship sessions led by invited science leaders and alumni mentors.
Building Networks For Regional Progress
Beyond structured leadership modules, the camp serves as a vital platform for building inter-island networks among young scientists across Region VIII. Delegates will collaborate on group challenges focusing on community innovation, science communication, and applying STEM solutions to local socio-economic issues facing coastal and rural communities in Eastern Visayas.
Organizers highlighted that fostering strong camaraderie among DOST scholars reinforces their commitment to serve the country as "Iskolar ng Bayan, Para sa Bayan," ensuring that science-backed innovations directly contribute to regional and national development.
