To establish and implement a collaborative framework among the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI), Bicol University (BU), and Sorsogon State University (SorSU) in enhancing science and mathematics education through mentoring, joint projects, and shared best practices, the three institutions formalized their academic partnership for the Science Teacher Academy for the Regions (STAR) Twinning Project through a ceremonial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) event on August 28, 2025, at the SorSU Boardroom, Sorsogon City Campus.
The STAR Twinning Project, a three-year mentoring initiative, is a capability enhancement program aimed at creating a supportive and collaborative environment for the professional growth of selected science and mathematics faculty members of Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs).
BU, referred to as STAR University, will provide University STAR trainers to serve as Twinning mentors, identify trainers for “Mentoring the Mentors Activities” and other STAR Twinning-related initiatives, share best practices, and promote joint research/academic projects to enhance teaching and learning practices of both mentors and mentees.
Meanwhile, SorSU, as the Twinning Partner, will facilitate the involvement of its science and mathematics education faculty, support the integration of learnings gained from the mentoring sessions into pre-service teacher education, and other related functions.
Additionally, the DOST-SEI is responsible for designing the overall structure and mentoring plans, providing financial support, organizing training programs both for BU and SorSU, and monitoring the overall progress of the activities.
Ms. Cynthia Gayya (Chief, DOST-SEI) provided the welcome remarks during the ceremonies, while Ms. April Valdez (DOST-SEI) presented the project overview. At the MOU signing, the DOST-SEI was represented by Dr. Jayeel S. Cornelio (Director, DOST-SEI). SorSU and BU, on the other hand, were represented by Dr. Jhonner D. Ricafort (Vice President for Academic Affairs), in lieu of SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, and Dr. Cyrus A. Barrameda (Vice President for Administration and Finance), in lieu of SUC President IV, Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III, respectively.
Messages of commitment were delivered by the representatives of the three institutions. The MOU signing was witnessed by Prof. Magnolia Vida Cano (Director, BU-Regional Center for Science and Mathematics Education Development) and DOST Chief Gayya.
Also in attendance during the event were Dr. Ryan V. Dio (Vice President for Research, Extension, and Training), Dr. Telesforo D. Escoto (Campus Director, Sorsogon City Campus), as well as key officials from the DOST-SEI and BU. (SorSU PIO)
