Daniel Peria Fernandez Grade 12-Thales

Innovation: Key to a Better Nation

Science, technology and innovation played a vital role in building a great nation.
A quick glance back through the history of some of the most notable developing
countries like Japan and Korea will show us how these three words paved the way in
the economic and political growth of these countries. These three things also shaped
the world we live in and started global modernization. If other countries was able to use
those as stepping stones in attaining economic success, why we, Filipinos, can’t?
Two out of the three things mentioned earlier, science and technology are
already within us and is also associated in our everyday lives. The third thing,
innovation, is what we need. We can achieve and obtain innovation but we lack
something.
Philippines, the so called “Pearl of the Orient Sea” is full of skilled, talented and
intelligent individuals. This means that we are not behind in terms of ability and
intelligence. But intelligence is not enough to make Philippines an innovative nation.
Application of our knowledge is what we lack. We do have the brain but we don’t have
the hands to do it. Science is not only about gathering of information but principally
applying that information in real life situations. Basically, technology is a product of
applied science.
Nowadays, technology has been an important part on every sector of our
country. From communication, transportation, farming, healthcare and many others. It
has brought a lot of changes which contributes to the blooming of the Philippines’
economy. Its benefits can be seen on the business world. It can make the use of time
efficient. It can boost the productivity of work. And it can open a lot of opportunities both
in local and international trades.
But behind these benefits, it has also bad effect on the part of human labor. The
use of machineries in farming, for example, has impacted those farmers who only work
for farm owners and do not really own a land to plant on. It is true that technology could
boost the productivity in farming but it could also result to farmers’ unemployment. With
this scenario, we could say that science and technology could not work properly without
innovation.
In countries like South Korea and Taiwan, they ensure that the benefits of
technology would filter down to their citizen in terms of job creation and in general,
better standard of living.
Going back to the Philippines, our lack of focus on innovation is causing us to not
attain economic success. We do have development but we disregard sustainability. If
we try to look at famous innovators, we could say that brain is not only their ace but
their courage and dedication. They do not fear to take risk even it cause them failure.
This years’ Science celebration theme tells us to be the Bill Gates, Thomas
Edison and Steve Jobs of our country. In short, it reminds us that we, the 21 st century
learners should be the great innovators that would change our nation into a better one.
We will be the one who will polish the dusty pearl and make it shine brighter than any
others.
To every Filipino youth out there, this message should leave a mark in our
creative minds. We are the one who will mold this nations’ future so innovation should
start on our own. Investing in technological advancement is a smart decision but
focusing more on innovation would make our economic status arise. If we really want to
have a better, sustainable and develop country, we must make a move now.