The Languages Department of the School of Liberal Arts of the Ateneo de Zamboanga, El Consejo Atenista and the AB English Academic Organization, led students and faculty members in the observance of the International Literacy Day.
The day’s affair held at the College Garden included a Scrabble tournament featuring students taking Engl 211 (Public Speaking and Debate) and an open-mic where members of the said department took turns in reading their favorite poems and even some of their own compositions. Genelyn Redublado of Engl 211-M was declared Scrabble Champ after mustering 210 points in the single-round game; her classmate in the same section Fariza Bongbong, was the Highest Scorer for a Single Word for the term exile which chalked up 57 points.
Every 8th of September, governments and organizations join the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in renewing their commitment to achieve global literacy and harnessing literacy for the promotion of harmony as this year’s theme suggests: Literacy for Peace. Mr. Randy Magdaluyo, assistant department chair and a master’s degree-holder in literacy, gave the rationale behind the inception of the International Literacy Day, highlighting its history and its importance.
Mr. Robin Delos Reyes, chair of the said department, said in his welcome remarks that the event that morning, albeit informal and without much fanfare, was an initial step to make members of the Ateneo community aware of the significance of this worldwide celebration. He then vowed to slate more activities for next year’s edition.
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Mr. Robin delos Reyes, chair of the Languages Department, | Dr. Minda Santos reads her favorite poem during the open-mic. |
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Students busy playing during the Scrabble Tournament. | |
