Question & AnswerQ&A (DOST)
The official title is the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 10612, otherwise known as the Fast-Tracked S&T Scholarship Act of 2013.
The State declares a policy to prioritize science, technology, and engineering for national development, prioritizing research, development, invention, innovation, and utilization; it also commits to providing quality science and math teachers at the secondary level through scholarships to deserving students.
Applicants must be Filipino citizens, regular third-year college students enrolled in CHED-compliant priority S&T courses in state or private universities, have a GWA of at least 83% in their first two years, and must pass the Junior Level Science Scholarship Examination administered by DOST-SEI.
S&T Priority Courses include four or five-year courses in basic sciences, mathematics, engineering, and other applied sciences identified as priority fields by the DOST-Science Education Institute.
Scholarship recipients must teach full-time high school subjects such as Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Information Technology, or Agricultural-related technology courses for a minimum of two years in a public or private high school as a return of service.
Incentives include a starting salary grade equivalent to Special Science Teacher I, priority for job placement (especially in their home province), a one-time relocation allowance if assigned outside their residence, scholarships for science education courses, and teaching opportunities pending Licensure Examination for Teachers eligibility within five years.
The awardee must repay the amounts disbursed plus applicable interest as stipulated in the service contract, which includes grounds for breach and penalties.
The Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) is the main implementing agency responsible for evaluation, awarding, and monitoring, while the Department of Education (DepEd) ensures job placement and hiring of qualified graduates as teachers.
Yes, other STEM graduates not covered by this scholarship may apply to teach if they meet the criteria, including being a Filipino citizen, having graduated with a STEM degree with at least 83% GWA, and complying with teacher licensing and continuing professional education requirements.
The DOST and DepEd, along with CHED and other organizations, shall conduct information, education, and advocacy activities focused on areas with a shortage of Science, Technology, and Mathematics teachers, emphasizing the incentives offered to attract graduates to teaching.