The University of San Jose–Recoletos (USJ-R) School of Education and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region VI and VII have formally entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to implement a literacy-centered extension program for an Indigenous community in the City of Naga, Cebu.
The partnership aims to expand educational opportunities and improve the quality of life of Indigenous families through community-based initiatives. The program will provide literacy sessions for children, distribute learning materials to support their education, conduct workshops for parents on environmental health, sanitation, livelihood, and homemaking, and strengthen collaboration with government agencies and partner organizations to ensure the program's sustainability.
The USJ-R School of Education will work closely with the University's Center for Recollect Community Engagement and Social Involvement (CRCESI), the NCIP Provincial Office, the City Government of Naga, and local barangay officials to implement the program based on the community's identified needs.
According to Dr. Vinchita Quinto, Dean of the USJ-R School of Education, the partnership reflects the University's commitment to Caritas et Scientia—Charity and Knowledge—by bringing education and service to underserved communities.
"This partnership provides an opportunity for the University to realize its vision of transforming communities through education and service," Quinto said.
She added that while the initiative is led by the School of Education, it is envisioned to grow into an institutional extension program where other academic units can contribute their expertise in future community development initiatives.
Implementation will begin with a Training Needs Analysis (TNA), allowing University and NCIP representatives to engage with community members and design responsive, sustainable interventions.
According to Atty. Princess May Acarde - Oral, Regional Director of NCIP Region VI and VII, the collaboration represents a significant step toward expanding educational opportunities for Indigenous communities.
"When private institutions collaborate with the government to provide educational opportunities, it will truly make a difference," Oral said.
She noted that this is the first partnership between NCIP Region VI and VII and a private higher education institution that formally includes an Indigenous community as the beneficiary of a literacy-focused extension program.
Through this collaboration, the University of San Jose–Recoletos reaffirms its commitment to advancing inclusive education, empowering Indigenous communities through literacy, and creating lasting impact through meaningful community engagement.
