‘While kids are very impressionable, it is important that you expose them to an environment that is not only educational but interactive as well to ensure better, more effective learning,” says Josette Biyo, Philippine Science High School-Iloilo director and Intel Excellence Teaching awardee.

Biyo, who has a planet named after her, specifically cited Science as one of the most interactive and fun subjects these little tykes can engage in as it does not only cover a gamut of topics, reaching space and beyond, but also because Science can move the country forward if given enough importance and attention. And what better way than to start learning while still young.

Biyo was guest speaker at the unveiling of the Nido Fortified Science Discovery Center, formerly Science Discovery Center, at the SM Mall of Asia held two weeks ago.

The momentous occasion highlighted the importance of science and technology, focusing on the “fun and interactive” way it can be taught to kids.

“The Science Discovery Center is part of Nido Fortified’s advocacy which is learning science through exploration, discovery and interaction,” says Nandu Nandkishore, president and chief executive officer of Nestlé Philippines Inc. “It is a technology-based center wherein parents and children can bond, learn and appreciate Science in a safe, fun and interactive way. Through this partnership with SM, we hope to encourage parents and educators to nurture the children’s love for Science at an early age.”

The Science Discovery Center at SM Mall of Asia has been welcoming kids to its play-and-learn environs since October 2007. It boasts of nine walk-through galleries, which encourage kids to engage and play with Science. Some of the popular stations include the Grossology station, where kids learn about the “dirt” of the human body; the flight stimulator area; Smart Media City for moving virtually around a 3D environment; Robots Inc. Gallery (go figure); and the Virtual Reef, where Mr. T is waiting to answer all your kids’ questions about “life in the sea.” For a more visual and intimate treat, the DigiStar Planetarium, the main attraction at the Science Discovery Center, might be more of an interest. Here, parents and children can bond, cocooned in a theater-like dome, where short films are projected on a 360-degree ceiling. It is spacious enough to seat about 160 people.

“The center was conceptualized and build to help [Filipino kids] rediscover their place in the universe, realize the impact of science,” says Hans Sy, SM Prime Holdings Inc. president. “The Science Discovery Center uses an approach that combines entertainment and education within the interactive galleries that make use of state-of-the-art technology, engineering, computer and digital technology.”

Sy adds that the partnership with Nido only reaffirms SM’s commitment to inculcate in Filipino kids the love for science. SM will continue to improve the Discovery Center, adding more attractions in the succeeding years, making it the best, if not at par with the best, in the world.

“The Philippines needs more scientists, researchers, engineers,” concludes Biyo. “Our country cannot move forward unless we have scientific advancement, unless we develop a culture of science and research. Plus we need to create an environment that will encourage and inspire our children to love science. Let us be partners in promoting a culture of science among the young. Let us all work together to improve science competency in the Philippines.”