A LABORATORY on wheels has rolled into the UST Quadricentennial Park, aimed at making science exhibits and hands-on learning sessions more accessible as part of the College of Science’s science week celebrations.
The Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute’s (DOST-SEI) mobile interactive science laboratory, called “nuLab: STEM in Motion Exhibition,” features advanced STEM modules in physics, chemistry, biology and aerospace engineering.
The nuLab is equipped with individual monitors, specialized sensors for nuclear science, a large interactive board, microscopes and other laboratory-grade equipment.
Kenneth Boston, DOST-SEI’s project technical specialist, described the facility as “a mobile classroom laboratory where students come aboard to experience hands-on learning.”
Once inside the lab, students first listen to lectures from DOST scholars before participating in hands-on exercises to apply the lessons.
“We often travel to areas far from the city to ensure that students in remote communities also have access to these opportunities. Public high school students who participate in the STEM modules are then encouraged to apply for the scholarship,” Boston said.
Science Dean Rey Donne Papa said the nuLab could inspire students to see science and technology as both attainable and rewarding career paths.
“This is one of the events that we hold wherein we really want to improve or increase the awareness for the science community – ‘yung pagkakaroon ng better appreciation ng science,” he told the Varsitarian.
This year’s science week also serves as a lead-up to the College of Science’s 100th anniversary in 2026.
“We want to use Science Week as an opportunity for visitors, beyond the usual exhibits from our College of Science students and the formal events, to experience the nuLab. It will give them a chance to witness and participate in the training sessions conducted by DOST facilitators.”
The mobile science lab is designed mainly for public high school students, particularly senior high schoolers, who are the primary candidates for DOST-SEI’s scholarship programs.
The first sessions on Tuesday included students from Kasiglahan Village Senior High School in Rodriguez, Rizal, alongside UST Senior High School (SHS) students.
On Wednesday, it will welcome students from Montalban National High School and UST SHS.
UST students may explore the nuLab during scheduled public viewing hours. It will remain stationed at the Quadricentennial Park until Wednesday.
