19 February 2020, Quezon City – The staff of the DOST-Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI) attended the orientation on Ex-Ante Analysis and Theory of Change on 19 February 2020 at the DOST-ASTI Training Room. The whole-day orientation was conducted by Ms. Princess Alma B. Ani and Ms. Mia Barbara D.V. Aranas of the Socio-Economics Research Division (SERD) of the DOST-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD). 

The Ex-Ante Analysis is a method used to evaluate research and development (R&D) projects by estimating the expected return-on-investment (ROI), while the Theory of Change gives a description and illustration of how and why a desired change was expected to happen in a particular context. 

Included in the discussion of Ex-Ante Analysis and Theory of Change, is how to create solid project proposals that can have a long-term benefit to its end-users by running an impact assessment. It is said that the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is currently drafting a monitoring and evaluation protocol where impact assessment will be a part of. Thus, it is essential that the DOST-ASTI personnel start familiarizing themselves with using these types of approaches for documenting their programs and projects. 

It is also expected that the subject matter will help the DOST-ASTI personnel be equipped and knowledgeable on concepts, principles, approaches, tools, and methodologies that may strengthen their capacities and insights in improving and enhancing Information and Communication technologies (ICT) and Electronics program planning and governance.