Mapúa University has led the charge again in boosting science and technology (S&T) in the Philippines. It is hosting this year’s Asian Science Deans Forum (ASDF 2024) from July 8 to 12, 2024. The forum will be held at Ramada Hotel Manila Central. Its theme is “Fostering Collaboration in Science and Technology for Sustainability.”
A panel of distinguished international experts and speakers will lead discussions. Topics include climate and gender issues, internationalization in education for sustainable development, and health research and ethics. They also cover environmental science, renewable energy, and digital transformation. Finally, they include responsible consumption and production, and the crossroads of science in business and human health.
The conference will also include students and researchers. They will share ideas that may address pressing socio-economic and environmental sustainability concerns.
“The Asian Science Deans Forum 2024 (formerly called Asian Science Deans Summit) is a platform for research collaboration, academic networking, and potential engagement. Deans and professors can discuss contemporary issues, concerns, and challenges to attain sustainable development. ASDF 2024 is also a venue where industry players can search for talents. These talents can contribute to solving the challenges they encounter in their respective business environment,” said Dr. Delia Senoro, director of Mapúa’s Office of International Linkages for Research and Development (ILRAD).
Dr. Senoro further explained that the forum will also enable industry leaders and companies to promote their products and technologies. They hope to provide solutions to the challenges identified by scientific communities.
What the Asian Science Deans Forum Is
The ASDF is an annual forum. It gathers credentialed educators, including deans, deputy deans, associate deans, directors, administrators and professors. In addition, researchers, industry experts, and students attend. Together, they create more opportunities for S&T initiatives and stronger education linkages around the globe.
An estimated 200 participants are expected to attend this year. They represent universities, research institutions, and industry segments from various Asian countries.
Building a Lasting Regional Network
Aside from knowledge sharing, ASDF 2024 organizer Mapúa University also aims to solidify the Asian region’s network of S&T educators, experts, and knowledge providers. To do so, it will produce a comprehensive digital forum booklet (CDFB). The booklet contains participants’ organizations, programs, capabilities, and other details. As a result, future S&T project owners can easily collaborate or consult their colleagues overseas.
Dr. Senoro stated that the forum will also seek to identify and list the top critical challenges discussed during the five-day forum. These shortlisted items will be included in the CDFB and shared in the scientific community. This helps researchers prioritize and engage in collaborative research. Ultimately, it forms a priority research agenda for the Asian region.
This is only the second year that Mapúa has participated in ASDF. However, Dr. Senoro explained that the university’s role will further bolster its credibility in the S&T and international research community. As a result, it will attract future international collaborations. It will also entice more research funding agencies and industries looking for highly competent talents in the Asian region.
For more information on the Asian Science Deans Forum 2024, visit https://asdf2024.mapua.edu.ph/.
