by Jose Rowel Damas
XUJHS
In a bid to strengthen its commitment to education and empower public elementary pupils, XUJHS’ Tulong Dunong inks partnership with DepEd Cagayan de Oro. Friday, 20 September 2024, Xavier Ateneo Administrators, DepEd CDO Officials, and partner Tulong Dunong schools gathered for the annual Meeting and Memorandum of Agreement Signing of the Tulong Dunong Program between Xavier University - Junior High School and DepEd-Division of Cagayan de Oro at the XUJHS Audio-Visual Room.
Tulong Dunong is the flagship service-learning program of XUJHS which immerses Grade 10 students through conducting a weekly tutorial to Grade 6 pupils of public elementary schools in Cagayan de Oro City.
Dr Pamela Pajente, Vice President for Basic Education of Xavier University welcomed the guests and key officials of both Xavier Ateneo and the Department of Education emphasizing the importance of meaningful interactions between XUJHS students and their tutees created through the program.
Ms Sonia Lagura of Macanhan Elementary School and Ms Joan Tabilin of Lumbia Central School, presented some of the best practices of their Tulong Dunong implementation, highlighting the importance of preparedness and open communication between their school and XUJHS.
The ceremonial MOA Signing happened right after the presentation of Ms Lagura and Ms Tabilin, in attendance were Xavier Ateneo University President, Fr Mars P Tan, SJ, Dr Pamela Pajente, VP for Basic Education, Ms Lea Lilibeth Emata, XUJHS Principal, Ms Jennifer Yu, Assistant Principal for Academics, Mr Anthony Ryan Mañus, XU Basic Education Social Development and Tulong Dunong Coordinator and XUJHS Key Administrators and Formators/Teachers, leading the Department of Education- CDO is Mr Jerry Taruc, Division Sports Coordinator, School Principals of the eight partner elementary schools along with their TD Coordinators.
Fr Mars P Tan, SJ extends his deepest gratitude for the renewed partnership as Xavier Ateneo remains committed to forming its students to be persons for and with others. On the other note, DepEd-CDO’s Mr Taruc expressed his unwavering support for the program citing education as a fundamental driver of economic and social progress.
“The stories we heard today reaffirms the importance of the Jesuit Mission in education.” Ms Lea Lilibeth Emata in her closing remarks.
Now in its 11th year, XUJHS Tulong Dunong stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless young minds as it continues to hold on to its commitment in transforming lives through education.