HomeUIC Research Journalvol. 21 no. 2 (2015)

Preparing Young Filipinos for STEM Careers: The Philippine Science High School - Southern Mindanao Campus Experience

Rochelle T. Papasin

 

Abstract:

The Philippine Science High School was established to build the science, technology, engineering and mathematics manpower of the nation. This study was conducted to track alumni of the first ten batches of PSHS Southern Mindanao Campus (Batch 1992-2001) to verify the attainment of this PSHS vision. Using Sloven’s formula, a sample size of 260 alumni was determined. Data on courses completed, universities attended, and current whereabouts of the alumni were gathered through a questionnaire and verified from online sources and personal interviews. Data gathered show that PSHS SMC alumni complied with the requirement to complete a STEM course at the rate of 88.5%, much higher than national enrollment rate of 26%. The most preferred universities are the campuses of the University of the Philippines System and the Ateneo universities. Currently, the top sectors that engage the PSHS SMC alumni are technical jobs and IT-related jobs. Majority of the PSHS SMC alumni are currently engaged in STEM professions remain in the country and 77.1% have remained in the country.