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Taguig City, Philippines—The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) will convene a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to address the challenges and propose solutions in developing, transferring, and adopting modern agricultural technologies.Adopting advanced agricultural technologies is necessary to improve the productivity and efficiency of the country’s agricultural sector. These technologies include gene editing and genetic modification, bio-based inputs such as biofertilizers and biopesticides, advanced crop protection methods, autonomous farming equipment, precision agriculture tools, and cutting-edge digital platforms.
 
State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and other institutions have been developing such technologies and undertaking similar projects to boost agricultural production. However, many of these breakthroughs remain underutilized due to challenges in effectively transferring them to intended users. Consequently, numerous technologies and resources are left “shelved.  Invited resource persons will elaborate on these challenges and the overall technology transfer situation in the Philippines through lined-up lectures before the FGD. Topics for the lectures will include the implementation of the Philippine Technology Transfer Act of 2009, granting Patent and Utility Model (GPUM) Awards, and best practices for successful technology commercialization.
 
The FGD will serve as a platform for the participants to identify the current technology development process gaps. Participants will examine the factors behind successful and failed technology transfers and adoption. From this discussion, they can then deliberate and propose actionable strategies and concrete policies to overcome adoption gaps.
Moreover, they will identify stakeholder roles and functions that require strengthening including the support needed.
The FGD is hosted by the NAST Agricultural Sciences Division and will involve collaboration with other NAST scientists, representatives from various national government agencies, academic institutions, and private-sector industry leaders. (Daniel Jason M. Maches, NASTPHL) The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL), an attached agency to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), is the premier organization that recognizes achievements in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), nurtures emerging scientific talents, and serves as the primary advisory body on national ST&I policy and related matters. For more updates, follow NAST Philippines’ (@nastphl) social media accounts. (Daniel Jason Maches/NAST PHL)