Ateneo de Zamboanga University reaffirmed its commitment to culturally inclusive education by hosting the second installment of a teacher training seminar on December 6–7, 2024. Titled “Culturally Inclusive Education: Strengthening Educators’ Capacity on Indigenous Knowledge, Systems, and Practices (IKSP) Integration,” the workshop, held at Room 401 of the Sauras Building, equipped Indigenous Peoples Education (IPED) teachers with the skills and strategies needed to create culturally responsive and inclusive learning environments.
The program focused on three key areas:
- Information and Technological Assistance,
- Indigenous Peoples Education Curriculum and Strategies tailored to Subanon and Sama-Bangingi tribes, and
- Integration of IKSP materials and resources into classrooms.
Day one highlighted curriculum development, strategies, and culture-based teaching modules facilitated by Ms. Loreta R. Sta. Teresa, CCES Director. Day two provided practical training in basic technological tools such as MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Canva, led by the Ateneo Center for Environment and Sustainability Team.
Nineteen teachers benefited from the seminar:
- 5 from Simariki School for Indigenous People, Talon-Talon,
- 7 from Monte Central Indigenous Peoples Elementary School, Patalon,
- 7 from Campo Uno Indigenous Peoples Elementary School, Labuan.
The training was made possible through the support of the Assisi Development Foundation Inc., in collaboration with the Department of Education Schools Division Office of Zamboanga. Key partners included Dr Majarani M Jacinto, CESO V, Schools Division Superintendent, and Ms Norma Francisco, Public School District Supervisor and Division IPED Focal Person.
This initiative reinforces the commitment to delivering quality, culturally relevant education for Indigenous Peoples learners, equipping educators with the tools to address diverse needs while valuing indigenous knowledge and practices.
