26/10/2026
More than 100 science educators and student-researchers from the region gathered at the MSU-IIT Hinaplanon Campus for the Regional Conference in Chemistry Education 2026 (RC²E 2026) with the theme "Catalyzing the Future of Chemistry Education: Innovation, Artificial,” on October 24.
Organized by the Philippine Association of Chemistry Teachers – Region X Chapter (PACT-X) and co-hosted by MSU-IIT through the College of Education (CED) and the Integrated Developmental School, the RC²E 2026 served as a dynamic space to upgrade chemistry education through professional learning, dissemination of research findings, and innovation.
Conversations centering on recalibrating teaching chemistry in an evolving world where artificial intelligence (AI) becomes ubiquitous were among the main focuses of the conference. Discussions underscored the importance of providing sustainable learning in an AI-driven world while acknowledging its inherent limitations. Educators emphasized utilizing AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement, ensuring that classroom discussions prioritize strategies to enhance learning and maintain long-term engagement.
The conference welcomed Prof. Arnold Alguno, DSc, Director of the Office of Research and Management of MSU-IIT, as the Keynote Speaker. In his talk entitled “Catalyzing Change: Reimagining Nanotechnology Education for a Greener and Sustainable Future,” Alguno highlighted the important role of education in bridging together scientific understanding, experimental evidence, and environmental responsibility. With a focus on nanotechnology, his talk introduced the ways nanotechnology can be integrated into the modern science curriculum.
Plenary sessions on research-based innovations for science education and teaching chemistry to inculcate sustainable solutions also added to the discourse. Both from MSU-IIT, Dr. Jun Karen Caparroso delivered the plenary session entitled “From Research to Classroom Impact: Evidence-Based Innovations for Meaningful Science Learning,” while Dr. Maria Cecilia V. Almeda shared her presentation “From Classrooms to Communities: Teaching Chemistry with Purpose through Systems Thinking and Sustainability: Empowering educators to connect chemistry with real-world challenges, inspire sustainable solutions, and shape future-ready learners.”
Diverse ideas and exchange also flourished during the presentations of educators and student researchers during the Oral Presentations, Young Scientists Forum, and Show and Tell Presentations. Educators and student researchers presented a wide array of research covering various topics, including chemistry content, pedagogical strategies, instructional technology, and innovative teaching methodologies.
An awarding of the best papers followed afterwards, and the newly elected PACT-X Board of Directors were also recognized during the closing program. Among them was Assoc. Prof. Odyssa Natividad M. Molo, from the MSU-IIT Integrated Developmental School, who also served as the chairperson of this conference.
