Tabuk City, Kalinga— The tripartite partnership between DOST-CAR, DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC) and the Kalinga State University (KSU) for the newly-established Advanced Mechatronics, Robotics and Industrial Automation Laboratory (AMERIAL) in CAR has provided opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to explore technological advancements in enhancing their products, services and operations.
This was the testament shared during the program orientation and ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for beneficiaries of the AMERIAL held on August 18, 2021.
In her message, Regional Director Nancy Bantog underscored the benefits of the initiative especially for the stakeholders in the locality. “This is the fruit of the advocacy of KSU and DOST in promoting technologies through our research and development efforts,” she said.
The AMERIAL is envisioned to provide technological upgrades such as automation of irrigation systems for farms and even micro hydro power plants in Kalinga. Currently, 31 beneficiaries are enrolled in the first batch of the program, 29 of which are engaged on water technologies (the other 2 are in the furniture and coffee processing sector, respectively). A Forum on Water Technologies among stakeholders was held to further equip the beneficiaries towards adopting innovative solutions for their enterprises and the communities at large.
It can be recalled that DOST-CAR, DOST-MIRDC and KSU formally launched the AMERIAL on July 6, 2021, establishing the local AMERIAL team and making it the second university in the country as an extension of the DOST-MIRDC.
In support of the development of the local metals and engineering industries, DOST continues to ensure that science works for the people of Cordillera by providing opportunities to cope with the fast-paced technological developments through the AMERIAL.**Christian Robert M. Sandoval
