Theme: Schools and Startups: On Becoming an Innovation Nation

Speaker: Atty. Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II

SEAMEO INNOTECH convened its Seminar Series on Education, Innovation, and Technology on June 17, 2026, featuring Atty. Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II, Chancellor of the University of the Philippines Diliman. In his presentation, “Schools and Startups: On Becoming an Innovation Nation,” Vistan examined how education can help develop the capacities and mindsets needed to advance innovation and sustainable development in the Philippines. He reflected on the country’s longstanding investment in science and technology education, including the expansion of science high schools, STEM-focused programs, and scholarships, while questioning whether increasing the number of STEM graduates alone is enough to build an innovation-driven nation.

Vistan emphasized that innovation requires more than technical expertise. Alongside scientists and engineers, innovation ecosystems need people with expertise in business, economics, social sciences, and other fields who can help transform ideas into viable solutions. He proposed moving from predominantly profession-oriented education toward a more innovation-oriented formation of learners, including opportunities for multidisciplinary learning, entrepreneurship, and stronger engagement with industry. He also stressed that producing patents and inventions is not enough if these are not translated into applications that create value and benefit society. The discussion highlighted the need for stronger collaboration among schools, government, industry, and other sectors, as well as a more strategic national approach to developing an environment where Filipino talent can contribute to innovation locally.

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