On October 14, 2023, the Ateneo Learning and Teaching Excellence Center (ALTEC) celebrated the 8th anniversary of the SUGPAT Program with a day filled with insightful discussions and immersive experiences. The SUGPAT Youth Talks 7, themed “Promoting Ecological Conversion for the Youth,” took place at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Lantaka Campus, followed by afternoon immersion tours at the Mangrove Area in Simariki Island and the Campo Vida Agricultural Learning Center in Malagutay.
The event kicked off with the SUGPAT Youth Talks 7, featuring Mr. Rogin Eribal, ALTEC Director, who shared the rationale and message behind the program. Opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Mario Rodriguez, Assistant to the President for Social Development, setting the tone for a day of education and exploration.
Mr. Emir Epino, the Director of the Ateneo Center for Environment and Sustainability (ACES), took the stage to enrich minds with a presentation on ecological conversion. His call for environmental stewardship resonated with the youth participants, encouraging them to become active guardians of the environment. This segment of the event served as the cornerstone of the morning, inspiring the audience with a renewed commitment to sustainable practices.
In the afternoon, the youth participants split into two groups for immersive tours that deepened their connection to nature. The first group explored the mangroves of Simariki Island, guided by Ma’am Leilani Jimlani, the secretary of the Association of Indigenous People Mandatory Representation. At the end of the tour, Mr. Joie Ramos, from the City Environment and Resources Office – Zamboanga City, gave an educational talk about the different mangroves and their significant role in the environment.
Simultaneously, the second group explored the Campo Vida Agricultural Learning Center, where they received an educational talk about the diverse crops available at the center from Kids Who Farm Co-Founder, Mr. Muneer Hinay. Then the participants engaged in a tree-planting activity. They have been encouraged to return in a few years to witness the growth and impact of their planted trees.
As ALTEC commemorates 8 years of the SUGPAT Program, the success of the SUGPAT Youth Talks and the immersive experiences underscore the center’s commitment to fostering ecological awareness and inspiring positive change among the youth. The celebration serves as a reminder that through collaborative efforts and meaningful experiences, a future that is more sustainable and environmentally conscious is possible for generations to come.
