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The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Strand is getting a reboot as the Department of Education knows it plays a key role in preparing future generations for a fast-changing jobs landscape.
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By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
N today’s technology-driven world, the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Strand plays a crucial role in equipping students with core skills and mindset, essential for the rapidly evolving job market.
PHOTOS FROM TALUBANGI NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL FACEBOOK PAGE
In Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, Talubangi National High School (TNHS) is a “go-to” for Senior High School (SHS) students who have the aptitude for Math, Science, and Engineering. The school prides itself in being the only nationally-recognized science-oriented high school in the Division of the City of Kabankalan. “Talubangi National High School takes pride in offering the STEM strand as the flagship of its specialized science programs,” said Assistant Principal Jelmer Gumban. The school is known in the city to have a reputation of academic excellence, having undeniably intelligent students and graduates. “We provide a learning envi-
ronment equipped with facilities, research opportunities, and a curriculum designed to challenge and inspire. Guided by competent and highly trained teachers who are passionate about their craft, students are nurtured to develop critical thinking, innovation, and problem-solving and life skills that prepare them for the demands of the 21st century,” added Gumban, who is also Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) Program Coordinator of TNHS. Currently, a total of 193 SHS are enrolled in STEM.
STEM is challenging
STEM, Gumban admitted, is challenging both for the students
EDUCATION Secretary Sonny Angara leads the opening of MindSpark Science Discovery in Parañaque City on August 13, 2025, an interactive museum designed to spark students’ interest in robotics, AI, and STEM. With him are DepEd partners Nida Sison, Roselyn Sison, Dr. Lawrence Li Tan, and officials of the Parañaque City government. PHOTOS FROM THE OFFICIAL FACEBOOK PAGE OF SEC. SONNY ANGARA
pursuing it and the educators for STEM strand, because it is both rigorous and dynamic, but he said, challenges are a “natural part of the journey for teachers and students alike.” “For students, the STEM program requires mastery of advanced concepts in Mathematics, Science, and Technology, coupled with strong analytical and research skills. They must also learn to collaborate effectively in group projects and adapt to advancements in technology. For teachers, the challenge lies in keeping pace with the evolving scientific and technological landscape while designing engaging lessons that bridge theory and real-world application,” he explained, adding that both sides must embrace continuous learning, perseverance, and resilience to thrive in STEM. STEM is indeed challenging, agreed Hanz Cedric C. Medes, 23, a new college graduate of Civil Engineering with specialization in Structural Engineering. Medes said he picked STEM strand when he entered SHS because he knew a STEM education will prepare him for his engineering career in the future. But STEM is “easy” for him, he said, because he is always focused on studying. “I survived [STEM strand] because I learned how to be independent. And also learned how to be confident with my answers, and not doubt my capabilities,” he said. If he will go back to his SHS days, Medes said, he will definitely choose STEM strand over again.
Spark students’ interest
TO make STEM interesting for Grades 11-12, TNHS employs a variety of strategies to spark and sustain students’ interest in STEM like participation in hands-on laboratory experiments, research and robotics challenges, research capstone projects, and STEM-related competitions are integrated into the curriculum to make learning interactive and exciting. “In addition, we actively conduct advocacy programs in nearby schools to promote the STEM strand, inspiring younger students to pursue science and technology—fields that are in high demand in today’s fast-changing and technology-driven world,” Gumban said.
Investing in young minds
JUST this week, Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara on Tuesday underscored that the nation needs a new STEM education that sparks change and transforms lives. “A curious mind is the seed of a promising tomorrow. Our children hold the key to solving the emerging challenges of the future—armed with creativity, resilience, and the power of their innovative thinking,” Angara said as he led the grand opening of MindSpark, the country’s largest science museum, describing it as a “playground for the mind” and challenging students to turn curiosity into innovation that can change lives. Organized by the Philippine Amusement and Entertainment Corporation, MindSpark aims to Continued from A1
PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 56.7340 n JAPAN 0.3840 n UK 76.7781 n HK 7.2425 n CHINA 7.9022 n SINGAPORE 44.1819 n AUSTRALIA 36.8601 n EU 66.1065 n KOREA 0.0408 n SAUDI ARABIA 15.1214 Source: BSP (August 15, 2025)