Saint Mary’s University proudly highlights the active participation of five Project STAR (Science Teachers Academy for the Region) Trainers—Mrs. Gloria Vicky Antonio, Mr. Gerome Bautista, Dr. Elsa Cajucom, Dr. Analyn Guevara, and Dr. Melanie G. Gurat—in the 4th International DOST-SEI Project STAR Conference: Bridging STEM and Sustainability: Empowering Educators as Nation-Builders, held on November 26, 2025 to November 28, 2025, at The Heritage Hotel Manila, Pasay City, Philippines.

The conference provided a national platform for science educators, researchers, and policymakers to discuss strategies for advancing STEM education and promoting sustainable practices across the Philippines. The program commenced with registration from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM, followed by the Opening Program, which featured a prayer, the Philippine National Anthem performed by the Philippine Normal University Chorale, an opening message by Engr. Albert G. Mariño, Director III, DOST-SEI, a message from Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. (DOST), and a keynote address delivered by Dr. Jayeel S. Cornelio, Director IV, DOST-SEI.

The conference featured plenary sessions on key topics including:

• Bridging STEM and Climate Education, facilitated by Dr. Kessara Amornvuthivorn (SEAMEO STEM-ED)
• Citizen Science as a Scientific and Educational Paradigm, presented by Prof. Dr. Thomas Neyens (Universiteit Hasselt, Belgium)
• Partnerships for Progress: Fostering Collaboration Between Academia, Industry, and Government for Sustainable STEM Education, led by Dr. Yann Shiou Ong (National Institute of Education, Singapore)

In the afternoon, parallel workshops and sessions were conducted to provide practical and research-based strategies for STEM educators. Notably, Mr. Gerome Bautista facilitated in the workshop “Utilizing Khan Academy’s Platform and AI in Enhancing STEM Teaching and Learning”, facilitated by Ms. Bernadeth Daran (Khan Academy Philippines). These sessions equipped educators with innovative tools for integrating digital platforms and AI in STEM instruction.