Samsung Philippines has partnered with DepEd and launched the Solve for Tomorrow program for aspiring young STEM leaders.
In partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow is an innovative competition that fosters critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and teamwork to encourage social innovation ideas that address pressing community issues.
The program first launched global on 2010. It has provided an opportunity for students worldwide to turn their imaginative ideas into practical solutions. It also aims to empower STEM students to share and realize their ideas to solve societal challenges and make an impact in their local communities.
The competition offers a unique learning experience, enabling participants to leverage their STEM expertise. They are also able to acquire valuable skills throughout the entire journey. As of 2020, the CSR program has benefited over 2 million people and expanded to over 50 markets. This includes the Philippines in 2023.
STEM in the Philippines
In the 2022 edition of the Global Innovation Index, the Philippines slipped eight spots to rank 59th in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) scales in reading, math, and science.
In the first participation of the Philippines in PISA back in 2018, Filipino students ranked the lowest in reading comprehension among 79 countries. They also ranked the second lowest in both mathematical and scientific literacy.
“Every young person deserves to unlock his or her full potential, regardless of circumstances. Samsung believes in developing young minds and equipping them with resources and opportunities that nurture their dreams, so they can generate positivity that also inspires fellow young people.” Mr. Minsu Chu, Samsung Philippines President
How to Join
The program targets the youth who are taking on the STEM track from Grades 8-12. The Solve for Tomorrow program aims to enhance the student’s technical and 4C skills (cooperation, communication, creativity, and critical thinking).
Interested applicants, consisting of students and a teacher, can submit their application through the official Samsung website. Entries are welcome from individuals or teams with a maximum of eight members. Schools may enter as many individuals or teams.
Applicants are required to submit a written plan (maximum of 1,000 words) about the issue or problem they wish to solve, a poster or diagram of their plan, a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation (maximum of 10 slides), or a 5-minute video presentation.
Solve for Tomorrow will run in three stages from May to December of 2023. Qualified entries will go through a preliminary round in June. Shortlisted teams will move to the semi-final round that will last until October. This is when they will be subjected to workshops and mentorship in order for the teams to build a prototype for their solution. Only five (5) teams will advance to the final round. During the final round in December, the students will present their prototypes to a panel of judges. Three (3) individuals or teams will be announced as winners. Prizes worth over PHP 1.5 million await the winners including their respective teachers and schools.
