Creating Innovation Systems in Philippine Schools
The increasing interconnectedness of global economies, rapid technological advancements, and the looming challenges of the public health crisis and climate change underscore the importance of fostering innovation. Within this context, our schools stand as crucibles for molding the minds of the next generation. This unique position grants them the responsibility to instill not only academic achievements but also an innovation mindset in students—one that extends beyond traditional learning to encompass critical thinking, creativity, and entrepreneurial acumen.
Going beyond conventional academic pursuits, nurturing an innovation mindset is imperative for our students to emerge as the beacons of hope for our country. This mindset demands a fundamental shift in our approach to creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. As our national development faces challenges, recognizing these issues marks the initial step toward resolution. Harnessing the creativity of our youth becomes crucial in overcoming these challenges. Simultaneously, building resilience in the face of adversity and fostering an inclusive culture that embraces diverse perspectives are essential elements in cultivating our future innovators.
Traditionally perceived as institutions primarily focused on academic learning, our schools are evolving into pivotal hubs for nurturing the creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities indispensable for future innovators. Creating an innovation ecosystem conducive to an innovation mindset within our schools necessitates a comprehensive approach. This involves not only curriculum redesign but also the integration of extracurricular programs, teacher training, and technology incorporation. The synergy of these components creates an environment where creativity flourishes, empowering students to actively contribute to the innovation landscape.
The litmus test for successfully nurturing innovators lies in their ability to translate theoretical knowledge into tangible, real-world applications. Schools must provide opportunities for students to engage in hands-on projects, collaborate with industry professionals, and tackle genuine societal challenges. This practical application not only solidifies their learning but also instills a profound sense of purpose and responsibility, connecting education directly to societal needs.
Drawing inspiration from global success stories provides compelling evidence of the transformative impact of innovation systems in nurturing innovators within the educational sector. Integration of innovation into its curriculum has resulted in a surge of engagement, entrepreneurial endeavors, groundbreaking research, and a student population adept at leveraging technology to address complex challenges.
Closer to home, the government’s efforts to establish grassroots innovation are beginning to yield fruit. With over fifty (50) technology business incubators now present in higher education institutions across the country, scientists and engineers are inventing solutions to our pressing problems. Enterprises are adopting home-grown technologies to improve their operations, and technologies are being translated into tangible products and services benefiting the Filipino people. This illustrates our capacity to solve our problems, meet the demands of an ever-evolving world, and shape our future. These success stories illuminate the immense potential of innovation systems in our schools—to enable innovators, catalyze innovations, and further our national development.
Prof. Matthew George Escobido is an adjunct professor at the Asian Institute of Management where he started the Innovations and Analytics Clubs, as well as pioneered the Leaders in Innovation Fellowship and MS in Innovation and Business programs. The programs are for aspiring technology entrepreneurs and company innovators to bring their ideas to life. He is an inventor and innovator himself—with patent, invention disclosures, and awards on test chip design and semiconductor processes at Intel.
He was an outstanding consultant at Intel Australia and a professorial excellence awardee at AIM. He has mentored student teams that went on to win the United Nations Breakthrough Innovation Challenge, IdeaSpace and Cerebro Labs start-up competitions, and IXL Innovation Olympics. He chairs the Innovation Committee of the Management Association of the Philippines.
