The three-day Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Week (RSTW) in Antique ended in high spirits today, August 24, 2024.

Initiated and facilitated by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), this year’s RSTW gathered scientists, exhibitors, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), science enthusiasts, Local Government Units (LGU), Higher Education Institutions (HEI), and students from the different elementary and secondary schools in the Province of Antique at University of Antique Main Campus to experience the diverse exhibits and activities that showcase the science, technology, and innovation that aid in the development of the nation.

On the closing program held at Paghi-usa Hall, Dr. Pablo S. Crespo Jr., UA President who also served as Keynote Speaker, expressed his gratefulness to DOST for creating an ecosystem of support for the people and for believing and involving the State Universities and Colleges, the private HEIs and the academe, and the industries.

“The DOST has been an instrument in developing our niches and by extension our opportunities to serve our people,” Dr. Crespo added.

Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, Regional Director of DOST Regional Office VI, stated that whether this year’s RSTW really achieved its desired result will be revealed few years later upon assessing if the MSMEs and LGUs adapted the technologies showcased and if the students enhanced their appreciation of science and technology and pursued careers related to science and technology.

The winners of the first ever AI Hackathon in the Region were also awarded wherein University of San Agustin was hailed as champion followed by Iloilo Science and Technology University, and University of Antique who claimed second and third places respectively.