The SUGPAT Program of ALTEC is an innovative initiative dedicated to empowering underserved young people in the Zamboanga Peninsula and neighboring regions. SUGPAT is a local term that generally means to connect, merge, and bring together, and is understood by the different ethno-linguistic groups present in the Zamboanga Peninsula. Our program is built upon this ethos, aiming to connect and bridge the gap for underserved Filipino young people, providing them with opportunities to thrive and achieve their dreams.
At SUGPAT, we recognize the immense potential of the “second decade of life,” a crucial period characterized by growth, exploration, and creativity. However, it can also be a time of increased risks and vulnerabilities. Our mission is to create better experiences and offer opportunities for youth during this critical phase.
The SUGPAT Program was established in 2015, driven by the urgent need to address the growing number of out-of-school youth in Zamboanga City, two years after the fateful 2013 Zamboanga siege. In collaboration with the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Center for Culture and the Arts, as well as key partners such as UNICEF Philippines and ING, we have been at the forefront of providing transformative interventions and support.
Our initiatives encompass a range of programs designed to empower and uplift out-of-school youth. We launched an alternative school in 2016, catering to learners from various backgrounds, including those from the transitory site, permanent shelter, and informal settlements. At our alternative learning center, we foster creativity, innovation, and 21st-century skills, aiming to shape not only learners but also leaders who champion adolescent development and participation in the out-of-school youth sector.
In 2019, the Power for Youth project was initiated, a collaboration with the AdZU School of Education, UNICEF Philippines, and ING. This project focuses on strengthening the delivery of the Alternative Learning System (ALS). Through specialized training, curriculum development, and innovative learning materials, we aim to equip ALS implementers with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide quality education and support to ALS learners.
Additionally, SUGPAT has introduced the Educational Leadership and Management Course (ELMC) for ALS Implementers in Region IX. The ELMC aims to enhance the leadership and managerial capacities of ALS implementers. By equipping them with the necessary skills, we strive to transform them into visionary leaders who can improve teaching and learning in the ALS context.
Furthermore, we have launched the GoALS Capacity Development Program, furthering our commitment to empowering ALS teachers. This program focuses on equipping ALS teachers with action research skills, instructional materials development, and data-driven interventions. Through this program, we aim to enhance the learning experience of ALS learners and meet the demands of a changing educational environment.
At SUGPAT, we continuously strive to make a positive impact on the lives of young people. We collaborate with experts, educators, and community partners to create transformative learning experiences, provide specialized training, and develop innovative resources. Our ultimate goal is to empower youth, strengthen the alternative learning system, and create a more inclusive and brighter future for all. Because here in SUGPAT, every dream matters.
Learn more about SUGPAT on www.sugpat.org
