DepEd-X honors USTP as Public Partner in advancing Education Support Programs
By Kristine Jane M. Laid, USTP System STRATCOMM
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Cagayan de Oro (USTP), through the Extension and Community Relations Division (ECRD) of USTP Cagayan de Oro, has been honored with the prestigious Normin Star Award as a distinguished public partner by the Department of Education Region 10 (DepEd-X). The recognition was presented during the 2024 Regional Partners’ Convergence and Pasidungog sa Amihanang Mindanao (PAM) for Education Support Programs, held at the Limketkai Luxe Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City, on January 28, 2025. Dr. Maria Teresa M. Fajardo, Director of the Extension and Community Relations Division – USTP CDO, received the award on behalf of USTP.
Photo courtesy: Extension and Community Relations Division (ECRD), USTP CDO
Extension Project: ALS CPLC
USTP has long been a strong partner of DepEd in delivering training programs for the Alternative Learning System (ALS). One such initiative is the Alternative Learning System Continuing Professional Learning Course (ALS CPLC), a five-year training program designed for ALS teachers across 14 DepEd divisions in Region X. The program encompasses six curriculum strands: English communication skills, scientific and critical thinking skills, mathematical and problem-solving skills, life and career skills, understanding the self and society, and digital citizenship.
Photo courtesy: USTP CDO Department of Science Education Official Facebook Page
Three (3) USTP CDO colleges played key roles in the ALS CPLC extension project – the College of Information Technology and Computing (CITC), the College of Science and Mathematics (CSM), and the College of Science and Technology Education (CSTE). These colleges showcased their unique specializations in their respective fields, further strengthening USTP’s faculty and their involvement in outreach activities.
In 2021, USTP and DepEd formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) focusing on the implementation of ALS CPLC. The partnership involves training ALS mobile teachers and volunteers in pedagogy, andragogy, and the six learning strands of the ALS curriculum. This MOA underscores the strong commitment between the two institutions to elevate the skills of the community while integrating innovative technologies in teaching and learning.
USTP’s Other ALS Initiatives
USTP also developed the E-Monitor, a technology designed to create a comprehensive database of ALS learners. This tool aids in informed decision-making and strategic planning for ALS programs, ultimately improving access to higher education, employment, training, and livelihood opportunities.
Photo courtesy: Alternative Learning System Region X Official Facebook Page
In addition to the ALS CPLC program, USTP is the second (2nd) Higher Education Institution (HEI) to host the ALS Night School program. This initiative provides educational opportunities for 50 elementary and junior high school students who can only attend classes in the evening, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Celebrating the Success of ALS CPLC
On December 13, 2023, USTP and DepEd celebrated the culmination of the ALS CPLC extension project after two (2) years of successful implementation. The event took place at the AVC, 3rd Floor of the DepEd Regional Office X, Cagayan de Oro City. Looking ahead, the ALS CPLC Year 3 Culmination Activity will be held at the Dr. Ricardo E. Rotoras (DRER) Memorial Hall on March 11, 2025.
Photo courtesy: Extension and Community Relations Division (ECRD), USTP CDO
The Normin Star Award highlights USTP’s unwavering commitment to advancing education and community development. The success of these initiatives not only strengthens the skills of USTP’s faculty but also underscores the institution’s role in delivering innovative and exceptional education to the community. The ongoing partnership between USTP and DepEd exemplifies how collaboration can bring about lasting change, ensuring the continuous support and success of educational programs like ALS CPLC.
Photo courtesy: Alternative Learning System Region X Official Facebook Page
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