Witness UM's Unwavering Support To Community's Welfare

The University of Mindanao, through its Community Extension Center, organized the "Superhero Hygiene: Power Up with Clean Hands and Bright Smile" program at Prisco D. Diolosa Elementary School located in Biao Guianga, Tugbok District. This significant community outreach effort, coordinated by BPE students from the University of Mindanao as part of their BPE 311 Coordinated School Health Program and BPE 312 Personal, Community, and Environmental Health courses, sought to promote vital hygiene habits among Grade 3 students.

CTE’s seven student organizations actively participated in the donation drive, which took place at TEC 101, Enhancement Room, GET Building. Items such as notebooks, pencils, crayons, and hygiene essentials were gathered, ensuring that indigenous students received the resources they needed for their education. Through this collective effort, Lakbay Tinabangay fostered a spirit of bayanihan, demonstrating that education thrives when communities come together to support one another.

The initiative was led by Kate Mylicka Boucher and Inah Josanne Dispo, the instructors of the said courses, with the support of the BPE Program Head, Junald Jay Versano, and CTE Dean, Dr. Jocelyn Bacasmot. Their guidance and dedication played a crucial role in the success of this initiative, highlighting the significance of health advocacy and education. In addition to the educational sessions, hygiene kits containing essential items such as soap, alcohol, toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwash, and sanitizers were distributed to the students. Furthermore, food packs were provided for both students and teachers, ensuring a nourishing experience alongside the learning activities.

The Superhero Pledge, in which children committed to promoting and embracing hygienic behaviors in their homes and communities, was a program highlight. This symbolic pledge embodied the initiative's goal of developing young health champions who improve their peers' overall well-being. Aligned with the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 4: Quality Education, the "Superhero Hygiene" program reflects a proactive effort to promote public health. By imparting essential hygiene knowledge, the initiative supports disease prevention, reduces the risk of illness, and fosters healthier school environments.