The S4CP Proposal Writeshop attended by the USM NICER Cacao R&D Center and SKSU NICER Halal Goat Science and Innovation Center with DOST-XII Regional Director, Engr. Sammy Malawan
DOST – Science for Change program develops tech for cacao industry in SOCCSKSARGEN
Chocolate Science:
DOST Office of the Undersecretary for R&D
CLONING and hybrids seem to be highly scientific and far fetched terms. Yet this is the science in developing higher quality cacao beans in the provinces of Region XII. Through funding from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – Science for Change Program (S4CP), the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) – Cacao R&D Center developed 45 new cacao clones and made 13 new cacao hybrids/crosses and breeding population.
These technologies will enable local cacao production and profitability to increase by 30-40%. Funding for the Cacao R&D Center is from the Niche Centers in the Regions for R&D (NICER), a sub-program of the DOST-S4CP. DOST continuously invests in science and technology programs and facilities to address the present and future challenges of local agricultural producers.
“Through R&D, practical solutions are provided to challenges in agricultural processes,” says DOST Assistant Secretary for International Cooperation and Officer-In-Charge of the Office of the Undersecretary for R&D Dr. Leah J. Buendia. “The DOST-NICER Cacao R&D Center enables the development of varieties with superior traits like high yield, resistance to pest and diseases and tolerance to abiotic stress. Cacao breeding is a necessary science to ensure the viability and profitability of this business to farmers and the local industry.”
The NICER on Cacao R&D Center has developed a pod breaker with pod husk bean separator, a village level drying facility, and a semi-automated fermenting bin for improving the quality of cacao beans.
In an effort to support key sectors in Region XII, the DOST-S4CP will hold a Call for Proposals from August 15, 2022 to September 15, 2022. This is an opportunity for Higher Education Institutes (HEIs), government Research and Development Institutes (RDIs), and non-profit S&T networks and organizations seeking funding for their R&D/S&T initiatives in SOCCSKSARGEN and all other regions of the country.
Those interested to apply for funding may send inquiries to the:
Science for Change Program – Project Management Office
Office address at Department of Science and Technology
2/F ADMATEL Bldg., DOST Compound, Gen. Santos Ave., Bicutan, Taguig City.
Email at [email protected]
Telephone Numbers: (+632) 8837-2943 / 8837-2071 local 2510
S4C Facebook page at @dost.s4cp
By GILBERT M. PORALAN JR.
