WHERE IDEAS COME TO LIFE: Sustainability hub empowers young innovators

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), together with De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, launched a materials library to foster innovation among students and young entrepreneurs.

- IRIS GONZALES

It's a hub with a wide assortment of sustainable materials, research tools and incubation programs aimed at cultivating learning and creativity among students and young entrepreneurs.

"The synergy between the DOST TBI (Technology Business Incubation) program and initiatives like this materials library is clear. We're both committed to fostering a culture of innovation, providing resources for growth and building a connected ecosystem," said Enrico Paringit, executive director for the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development.

In the hub, learners can find plant-based leather alternatives, fiber foam, silk waste, porous bio-composite, fluted stones, ceramics and polymers.

The hub also provides learners with easy access to the physical material collection subscriptions, an innovation wall and desktop setups for research purposes.

Pantones and textile samples are available for viewing.

The educational space, created in collaboration with DLS-CSB's Hub of Innovation for Inclusion (HiFi), is located at the Design and Arts (D+A) Campus in Manila.

"This is not just a space filled with cutting-edge materials and resources but also a testament to our collective vision for a future where creativity and technology converge to solve the world's pressing challenges," Benilde HiFi director Paul Pajo said.