To provide training programs, DOST V taps BU for iWOMEN, iFWD PH project

In support of Gender and Development (GAD) programs by offering S&T support services to women micro-entrepreneurs and advocate women economic empowerment in the region, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) V inked a Memorandum of Agreement with Bicol University (BU) in delivering Core Business Development Sessions for the Innovations for Women Enterprise (iWOMEN) and Innovations for Filipinos Working Distantly from the Philippines (iFWD PH) on October 12, 2022.

On behalf of BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, Dr. Luis O. Amano, VP for Research, Development, and Extension (VPRDE), represented the university’s partnership with DOST V through Rommel R. Serrano, Regional Director.

As a result, BU, through its Center for Technology Commercialization and Enterprise Development (CTCED) and Start-up Incubation and Limitless Integration of Dynamic Entrepreneurial Leaders of Innovation (SILI DELI), will lead the capability training program to empower the women and OFWs in the region who want to engage the numerous businesses in the industry.

iWOMEN is a project that encourages technology-based entrepreneurship and emphasizes group experimentation and the creation of new goods that are connected to the company's scientific and technical advancements. This is also an advocacy of DOST V to empower women in enterprise, diverse groups, and underprivileged communities.

While iFWD PH is a program that seeks to assist Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families in starting their own technology-based enterprises by using its training model for the iWOMEN, it also takes new iFWD applications into consideration when selecting participants for open slots.

The scope of these projects includes the development of 13 modules and at least 13 supplemental learning materials. In addition, the university is expected to produce 14 webinar sessions for the Core Business Development Session.

For both projects, 85 participants are anticipated and its completion is targeted on December 31, 2022, or earlier. | by Arnold C. Noda, CPRO

Photo courtesy of SILI DELI Facebook page