Written by Diane Lim
In a collaborative effort to address illiteracy in the Municipality of Dumalino, the Ateneo Learning and Teaching Excellence Center (ALTEC) and the Ateneo de Zamboanga University School of Education (AdZU SEd) went on a one-and-a-half day mission trip on November 25 to 26, 2023. The mission aimed to enhance the capacity of the volunteers of SAGIP Kamag-Aral Dumalinao Organization. SAGIP is a locally developed, easy-to-adopt learning approach to address illiteracy in the municipality.
The mission engaged 28 young SAGIP Kamag-aral Volunteers at the Farm C Community Farm School in Sumadat. The training was facilitated by Ma’am Liza Garrido, the Coordinator for Educational Leadership and Development Program, with collaborative support from Mayor Junaflor “Sweet” Cerilles and the Local Youth Development Officer, Mr. Vee Arr Cruz.
The first day of the training focused on Brain Breaks and Strategies for Teaching Dolch Sight Words, with the Sagipians (how SAGIP volunteers call themselves) actively applying their learnings during a demonstration in the afternoon. The day concluded with a heartwarming bonfire session, where each Sagipian shared their personal motivations behind their commitment to volunteerism.
On the second and final day, the volunteers engaged in a workshop on creating a session guide. During the culminating plenary, the Sagipians presented their drafted session guides, which will be implemented upon their return to their respective stations.
To encapsulate their experience, each Sagipian shared a word that summarized their journey as volunteers. Two words resonated among the group: 1) “courage” – acknowledging the challenges they bravely face as volunteers, and 2) “gratitude” – expressing heartfelt thanks for the profound experience of being a volunteer.
The mission trip concluded with a closing program and the awarding of certificates. These certificates are not just tokens but symbols of recognition for the dedication exhibited by the Sagipians in their pursuit to alleviate illiteracy in Dumalinao.
The collaborative efforts of ALTEC, AdZU SEd, and SAGIP Kamag-Aral have undoubtedly contributed to empowering these young volunteers, equipping them with the knowledge and courage to make a lasting impact in their community.
