The crafting of a framework for multi-funder cooperation among three countries was initiated by science agencies from the Philippines, Japan and the United Kingdom (UK).
This framework addresses the need to come up with technologies that support Philippines, Japan and UK collaboration for sustainable coastal communities.
Benefits of Collaborating
According to a recent press release, the Philippines’ Department of Science and Technology (DOST), together with the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), convened researchers and stakeholders from the Southeast Asian countries to discuss recent studies on coastal communities and brainstorm ideas for possible research collaboration.
JST, UKRI, and DOST are research funders focused on resolving global challenges, propelled by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda.
Collaboration among these institutions is encouraged as it increases the complementarity and impact of investments in terms of research funding, people, equipment, data, and other resources.
DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) Executive Director Enrico Paringit stressed that the cooperation between Japan, UK and the Philippines should benefit the coastal communities that face threats of climate change.
He explained that having a multi-lateral approach to support research initiatives is a way to optimise resources.
There are research resources available in other countries that may be beneficial in the implementation of research projects here in the Philippines.
About the Initiative
The multilateral cooperation focuses on sustainable coastal communities as several projects in the Southeast Asian region were identified as having a thematic focus on water, coastal communities, and aquaculture, which are topics relevant to the SDGs.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030.
The 17 SDGs are integrated. They, therefore, recognise that action in one area will affect outcomes in others, and that development must balance social, economic and environmental sustainability.
One major discussion during the workshop was the participants’ experience with funding agencies that will be the basis for the development of an effective multi-funder mechanism.
Who are Involved?
JST, UKRI, and DOST will consolidate the input from the workshop and come up with a framework for multi-funder cooperation that may take effect in the following years.
JST plays a central role in Japan’s Science and Technology Basic Plan. It funds basic research, commercialisation of new technologies, distribution of science and technology information based on science and technology targets issued by the government.
Moreover, in recent years, it promotes international joint research and the fostering of next-generation human resources.
UKRI works in partnership with universities, research organisations, businesses, charities, and government to create the best possible environment for research and innovation to flourish.
OpenGov Asia had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Enrico Paringit previously, in an exclusive interview about their Agency.
He explained that the PCIEERD is committed to pursue and make available science and technology (S&T) solutions and innovations to help create and sustain competitive industries, attain energy self-sufficiency, and ensure the efficient and effective use of emerging technologies for the inclusive growth and development of the country.
