ZAMBOANGA CITY — Partnership, shared purpose, and youth empowerment took center stage as the Ateneo Learning and Teaching Excellence Center (ALTEC) of Ateneo de Zamboanga University convened partners and communities for “Bagong Pag-Asa, Lahat Kasama: Strengthening Partnerships for Youth and Inclusive Education.”
Held at the AdZU Lantaka Campus on February 13, the gathering brought together local government officials, education leaders, development partners, youth-serving organizations (YSOs), and young leaders in a shared celebration of milestones in advancing inclusive education and employability pathways for young people across the region.
The event served not only as a recognition ceremony, but as a reaffirmation of collective commitment to ensure that no young person is left behind in accessing meaningful learning and livelihood opportunities.
Recognizing Youth-Serving Organizations and Partners
A key highlight of the program was the recognition of Youth-Serving Organizations that successfully implemented community learning initiatives under the Learning to Earning Pathways (LEaP!) Programme, implemented by ALTEC in partnership with UNICEF Philippines and supported by Accenture.
Through the Year 1 #LEaPForward Capacity Building, participating YSOs designed and rolled out youth-centered initiatives focused on employability, entrepreneurship, leadership formation, and active citizenship. Plaques of Recognition were awarded to organizations whose community-based projects helped expand access to skills training and mentorship for young people.
Partner institutions were also honored with Plaques of Appreciation for their continued collaboration in expanding learning opportunities and strengthening local ecosystems that connect education to employment and enterprise.
Youth Voices at the Center
The program featured testimonies from young beneficiaries who shared how leadership formation, skills development, and mentorship experiences shaped their personal growth and professional direction.
Their stories reflected how inclusive learning spaces can help young people navigate career decisions, rediscover confidence, and take active roles in their communities. These lived experiences grounded the event in its core purpose: creating pathways that connect potential to opportunity.
Fellow, Ignatian Leadership Enhancement and Development (ILEAD)
Formalizing Commitments for Inclusive Education
In a significant step forward, ALTEC formalized partnerships through Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signings with the Department of Education Schools Division of Zamboanga City and the Department of Trade and Industry Zamboanga City.
These agreements reinforce collaboration in delivering inclusive learning initiatives, workforce readiness programs, and entrepreneurship support mechanisms for young people.
The event was graced by key local leaders, including:
- Hon. Beng Climaco, City Vice Mayor
- Fr. Richard V. Ella, SJ, Vice President for Administration of AdZU
- Hon. Carol Julianne F. Dalipe, SK Federation President
- Engr. Wesley D. Tan, Chief LEO, DOLE 9
- Dr. Victoria Mangaser, Curriculum Chief, DepEd Zamboanga City
- Ms. Grace Aduca, Provincial Director, DTI Zamboanga
Their presence underscored the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in sustaining youth development efforts.
A Message of Support from UNICEF Philippines, delivered by Dr. Akihiro Fushimi, Education Chief, further affirmed the value of strengthening local partnerships to build inclusive and equitable learning systems.
Beyond Celebration: A Renewed Commitment
More than a celebration of achievements, “Bagong Pag-Asa, Lahat Kasama” emphasized a shared call to action.
Institutions, government leaders, educators, and youth organizations renewed their commitment to:
- Expand access to inclusive learning opportunities
- Strengthen mentorship and workforce pathways
- Support young people in securing employment or starting enterprises
- Foster environments where leadership and innovation can thrive
The gathering reaffirmed that inclusive education is not the work of a single institution. It is built through sustained partnership, shared accountability, and trust among stakeholders.
As the program concluded, one message resonated clearly:
Bagong Pag-asa. Lahat Kasama. New hope is possible when everyone walks together.