DOST-NCR Partners with LP4Y to Empower Marginalized Youth and Communities

The DOST-NCR is walking the talk in its commitment to promote human well-being and empower marginalized sectors by forging a partnership with Life Project for Youth (LP4Y), an active Auxiliary Social Welfare and Development Agency (SWDA) that is certified by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The two parties formalized this collaboration with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between DOST-NCR, through its Regional Director Engr. Romelen Tresvalles, and LP4Y’s Country Coordinator Ms. Aglae de Villeneuve, represented respectively by DOST-NCR Assistant Regional Director for Technical Support Services Ms. Bianca Claudette Canlas, and LP4Y Project and Partnerships Officer, Ms. Zoe Laine, last January 28, 2025, at the DOST-NCR Office in Bicutan, Taguig City.

The partnership seeks to empower the marginalized youth and communities assisted by the LP4Y Centers. Through this collaboration, DOST-NCR and LP4Y will jointly assess the technology and technical needs of LP4Y-assisted communities, provide resources and expertise, co-organize and conduct training sessions, and monitor and evaluate the implementation of science, technology and innovation-based initiatives.

The partnership also seeks assistance of communities through the Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (CEST) and Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development (GRIND) Programs. Under these programs’ core pillars of wealth creation and human well-being, this initiative will enable marginalized youth and communities to develop their skills and knowledge in leadership and innovation. By engaging in technology-based livelihood projects and skill-enhancing activities, beneficiaries are encouraged to contribute to the development of their own communities, fostering a sense of purpose and empowerment.

DOST-NCR’s leadership and expertise in science, technology, and innovation are central to this initiative. The agency’s mandate to provide scientific and technical assistance to local government units, industries, private sectors, and civil society organizations aligns with its mission to promote sustainable growth and development.

Through this partnership, DOST-NCR affirms its dedication to human well-being by creating opportunities that uplift underserved communities, inspire innovation, and drive meaningful social transformation. The collaboration with LP4Y represents a significant step toward realizing the shared vision of a more inclusive and empowered society.

By:  Faith Barbie Lei Robles , Noel G. Calcetas and Pinky Marcelo