IESM faculty member Dr. Bernard Alan B. Racoma delivered the second lecture in the UP NISMED 61st Anniversary Seminar Series, sharing insights on the development of the BS Meteorology program and the growing community of weather science experts in the Philippines. The talk, titled “From Data to Disaster Readiness: Empowering Communities through STEM Education,” highlighted the evolving landscape of meteorology education and the crucial role of STEM in strengthening national resilience.

Drawing from his experiences as a researcher, educator, and advocate for weather literacy, Dr. Racoma discussed the establishment of BS Meteorology programs in Mariano Marcos State University, Central Luzon State University, Bicol University, and Visayas State University. He emphasized the resilience and creativity of these pioneering programs—many of which grew amid limited resources and the challenges of the pandemic—and celebrated the achievements of their graduates who now serve in PAGASA, DRRM offices, research institutions, and local communities.

The session concluded with a lively question-and-answer segment moderated by Jun Obille of UP NISMED. Questions centered on how to spark early interest in meteorology among young learners and how to sustain this momentum throughout their STEM education journey. Dr. Racoma encouraged teachers to incorporate real-world weather data, hands-on activities, and local examples to make atmospheric science more engaging and accessible. He also underscored the importance of nurturing weather-informed conversations in schools and communities to build a more resilient, science-literate Philippines.

Watch the full livestream at NISMED TV.