“Partnering for Change, Engaging the World” is the ASEAN summit 2017 theme. Change is the ultimate purpose of this very significant event. Philippines is so honoured and blessed to host this event under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte who popularized the tag line “Change is coming.”
According to Nelson Mandela, what is the most powerful weapon which we can used to change the world? It is education.
One of the ASEAN summit 2017 thematic priorities is Inclusive, Innovation-led Growth. How can Inclusive Education create change?
One way is through strengthening of the Education For All (EFA). The Philippine EFA aims to provide basic competencies for everyone to achieve higher functional literacy. In the EFA 2015, functional literacy is defined as the ability to communicate effectively, solve problems scientifically, think critically and creatively, use resources sustainably and be productive in order to develop one’s sense community and to expand world view.
Campus Journalism serves as a laboratory for learners to attain functional literacy. The competencies to be targeted in EFA are very much congruent with the aims of the programs that are being undertaken by Campus Journalism.
These programs include Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC), regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC), and National Schools Press Conference (NSPC).
This year’s press conferences highlight the theme, “Embracing ASEAN Integration: Campus Journalists Role in Advancing Inclusive Education”.
What is the role of campus journalists in bringing forth change towards nation building?
The given opportunities to these campus journalists enable them to reach the grassroots and localize actions. They become more aware of the real problems and lead to formulation of solutions. They also start to gain more confidence because they are more involved. Eventually they come up with realistic plans and make use of their strengths/skills for their communities. Therefore the young journalists become functional ad productive citizens.
We often regard that the truth will set us free and campus journalism promotes responsible and free journalism. Therefore, freedom achieved through campus journalism not only breaks the barrier of ignorance but most importantly creates a significant link to the community, the whole nation and the world. Real change is when everyone is properly informed, purposely involved, skillfully educated and globally competent and productive. Truly, words are powerful because they give knowledge and knowledge is power.
To all the young journalists, school paper advisers, consultants, coaches and mentors, we salute you for delivering the community to school and making education engaging. This is education for all through functional literacy.
By: JOCELYN R. BUMANGHAT, Camp 6 Elementary School, Tuba, Benguet
November 11, 2017
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