Unesco holds GST workshop

Representatives from seven countries in the Asia-Pacific gathered recently for the three-day Training Workshop for the National Research Coordinators on Gender, Science and Technology (GST) to discuss data collection system, instruments and reporting strategies and to undertake hands-on training on the management of the GST website.

A database is envisioned to be developed, serving as a repository of essential statistics and indicators on basic education, technical-vocational and higher education.

The workshop, sponsored by the UNESCO Regional Secretariat in Jakarta, Indonesia, was organized by the Science Education Institute (SEI) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

It was attended by national research coordinators from China, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, Myanmar, New Zealand and the Philippines.

The GST Project is seen as an effective tool to gauge the extent by which gender issues affect science and technology, particularly focusing on women’s participation in development.

In her opening address, Science and Technology Secretary Estrella Alabastro mentioned the various measures adopted by the Philippines to ensure the recognition and promotion of women’s role in national development.

One significant breakthrough, she said, is the formulation of the Gender and Development (GAD) Budget Policy which directs all government departments, bureaus, offices and agencies to set aside at least five percent of their annual appropriations for projects pertaining to women in development.

Such projects, she said, should be in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act 7192, otherwise known as the Women in Development and Nation-Building Act. — S&T Media Service