In July 20, Department of Science and Technology will lead the celebration of the 51st National Science and Technology Week.

Various activities that showcase recent developments and achievements in domestic science and technology along with technology fairs and scientific fora are lined up for this year's celebration.

The annual event also aims to raise public understanding of science and technology as well as DOST's role and contributions to national development.

With the opening of the 2009 National Science and Technology Week at the Manila Hotel, Balik- Scientist awardee Dr. Baldomero Olivera serves as the key note speaker of the said event.

Olivera, a distinguished professor of biology at the University of Utah, first gained fame for his discovery of painkilling properties in the highly toxic, ocean-going cone snails that are abundant in Philippine waters.

Olivera's discovery led to the development of a commercial painkiller called Ziconotide (Prialt), which is administered to patients suffering from extreme pain. Unlike traditional painkiller morphine, Ziconotide is not known to cause painkiller addiction and lasts much longer in the system.

To discuss the latest advances in prevention of HIV infection and treatment of full-blown AIDS, hundreds of scientists, medical experts and policy makers trooped to the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

Lost in the shuffle was an e-poster presentation by a group of Japanese and Filipino scientists who are investigating a novel approach to creating a vaccine against HIV.

DOST scholars graduates for school year 2008-2009 has given recognition in its Department of Science and Technology Regional Office.

The awarding ceremony was held recently at the Pearlmont Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City in which a gold medal of academic excellence was each given to the awardees.

The awardees are among the 121 DOST scholars who graduated last March 2009. Of the list, eight graduated magna cum laude, 36 are cum laude, and three are with honors.