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Empowering Lifelong Learning and Uplifting First-Generation Graduates Through Quality Education Initiatives

 

The University of Mindanao actively supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education. This commitment is reflected in efforts across several key components: the proportion of graduates with teaching qualifications, lifelong learning resources, and support for first-generation graduates.

Teacher qualifications play a crucial role in delivering high-quality education. In SY 2023-2024, graduates qualified to teach the primary level comprise 21% (55/255), while 79% (250/255) are qualified to teach at the secondary level. These graduates make up 13% (255/1885) of all enrollees in education programs. Research underscores a strong correlation between teacher qualifications and student performance, aligning with SDG 4. Producing a significant proportion of graduates prepared to teach at both primary and secondary levels ensures that learners, regardless of their background or location, have access to quality education—a fundamental aspect of SDG 4.

In a rapidly changing world, lifelong learning is essential for intellectual growth and personal development, contributing to a more fulfilling life. Continuous skills development enhances career opportunities and economic benefits. At UM, students and community members have free access to educational resources, both online and in physical library holdings, as well as campus facilities and equipment, promoting community engagement and strengthening connections with the broader community.

Public events, such as symposiums on International Volunteerism and Drug-Free Workplace Seminars, raise awareness and educate the public on issues that may directly or indirectly impact the community. These activities help address knowledge gaps and provide support to individuals with educational challenges. Additionally, these events offer valuable opportunities to gather community feedback, encouraging participation and assuring the community that its concerns are considered.

UM also conducts an international workshop series on early childhood education, giving teachers access to the latest trends in early childhood teaching and learning. Highlights include training in the preparation and use of authentic instructional materials and the integration of technology. Furthermore, the university’s free training series for Project Hope teachers enhances the teaching-learning experience for daycare teachers and students.

Hosting international research conferences provides a platform for professionals across fields to present, share, and interact, gaining insights from their peers. Continuous professional development opportunities are available annually to the public.

Moreover, UM faculty members serve as trainers, evaluators, reviewers, facilitators, and speakers at local, national, and international public events, supporting lifelong learning for professionals from diverse backgrounds.

UM also offers practical skills programs, such as Basic Computer Literacy, Basic Arc Welding for youth, and certificate programs and training for local officials, encouraging lifelong learning beyond formal schooling. These programs help participants build confidence and self-efficacy, positively impacting their personal and professional lives.

Additionally, faculty and students conduct outreach activities, such as reading intervention programs, to support struggling learners in developing essential reading skills. This work aims to reduce inequality by assisting beneficiaries in overcoming reading challenges.

The university’s lifelong learning policy, outlined in the Community Extension Manual, guides units and individuals in providing services and support to the community. Policies that promote lifelong learning strengthen community connections, raise awareness, and foster a more adaptable, skilled, and equitable society.

UM also supports first-generation students, with 12% (1009 out of 8,213) of students being the first in their families to pursue higher education. Scholarships are available for financially challenged students each year, and the Student Training Assistance Program offers financial aid through training combined with schooling, providing free tuition in exchange for a minimal number of work hours in an assigned unit. This program enables students to gain experience, increase productivity, and develop resilience, contributing to economic stability. Most trainees secure employment upon program completion.

SDG 4 aims to ensure inclusive, equitable education and promote lifelong learning. Education is a vital tool for breaking poverty cycles, and first-generation graduates, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, uplift their families economically. Their success inspires future generations to pursue higher education, fostering a cultural shift toward valuing education in communities where access to education is limited.

These initiatives exemplify UM’s commitment to quality education. UM will continue to provide quality education to graduates, alumni, stakeholders, and the public—both professionals and non-professionals—ensuring no one is left behind. UM remains dedicated to making SDG 4 sustainable by making education accessible to all.