The Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) held its annual In Touch with Excellence (ITWE) event on October 29 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC). The ITWE 2024 celebrated the academic success of DOST scholars, including those who have earned their Ph.D.s, recognizing their hard work and perseverance in attaining the highest academic achievements.
This year’s event carried the theme “Karunungang Taglay, sa Bayan Iaalay” (Knowledge Acquired, Dedicated to the Nation), underscoring the importance of transforming academic accomplishments into significant contributions that uplift society and foster national development.
Distinguished guests at the event included DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., DOST Undersecretary Ms. Maridon Sahagun, newly appointed DOST-SEI Director Dr. Jayeel Cornelio, and Deputy Director Engr. Engr. Albert G. Marino. Former DOST-SEI Director Dr. Josette Biyo also joined the celebration, adding to the event’s prestige.
Among those honored was Dr. Aaron Funa, a dedicated Science faculty member from the College of Teacher Education and Midwifery. He received a Plaque of Achievement in recognition of his completion of the Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education with a major in Biology from De La Salle University, one of the top higher education institutions in the country. As a DOST scholar under the Capacity Building Program in Science and Mathematics Education, Dr. Funa excelled, finishing his Ph.D. on time and bagging the Outstanding Dissertation Award.
Dr. Funa’s contributions extend beyond his doctoral studies. He served as President of the Br. Andrew Gonzalez FSC College of Education Graduate Student Council (BAGCED GSC) and was a consistent Gawad Saliksik awardee at De La Salle University for his publications in Scopus, ACI, and WoS-indexed journals. His achievements exemplify leadership and dedication, serving as an inspiration to current and future members of the Aspiring Teachers Organized for Modern Science (ATOMS) and those pursuing careers in science education.
The DOST-SEI ITWE 2024 reinforced the organization’s commitment to fostering academic excellence, highlighting scholars like Dr. Funa who are shaping the future of science education and paving the way for the next generation.
A T O M S – Aspiring Teachers Organized for Modern Science
