NEUST AND AKO ANG SAKLAY INC. FORGE PARTNERSHIP FOR EMPOWERMENT AND ADVOCACY

By: Dr. Maricar H. Sison
San Isidro Campus

In a landmark occasion fostering collaboration and commitment to social advocacy, the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) and Ako ang Saklay Inc. convened on April 8, 2024, at the premises of the latter in San Antonio, Nueva Ecija, which served as a pivotal step towards a potential partnership between the two esteemed organizations.

Leading the NEUST delegation were Vice President Rachael Moralde, Dr. Marivic Villegas, Director for Extension, and Prof. Marilene C. Hipolito, Director for Research, alongside the esteemed presence of Engr. Maria Isidra P. Marcos, Campus Director of San Isidro campus, and Research Extension Chairperson Dr. Maricar H. Sison. Complementing the ensemble were the members of the Research, Extension, and Training of San Isidro campus, including the chairperson of the College of Education, Dr. Pastora S. De Guzman, Chairperson of CICT -SIC Mr. Marvin DG. Garcia, Mr. John Derrick A. Samin, Dr. Jonathan Mañas, Mrs. Celestina SM. Yago, and Mrs. Rodella F. Salas. Faculty members from the different departments also attended the meeting: Engr. Abelardo Mendoza of the College of Engineering, Dr. Angelo Santos, The University ISO Auditor, Dr. Junil Constantino, Technical assistant of the office of the VPRET, and Architect Anna Dela Cruz Gattoc.

Ako ang Saklay Inc., under the leadership of Fr. Arnold M. Abelardo, welcomed the NEUST delegation with warmth and enthusiasm. Fr. Abelardo passionately presented Ako ang Saklay Inc.'s vision, mission, goals, and objectives. Literally meaning "I am the crutches," the non-profit, non-governmental organization is dedicated to compassionate advocacy, respect, and the empowerment of persons with disabilities, women, and youth.

During the meeting, NEUST's VPRET Moralde introduced the university's core team, highlighting potential projects and collaborations aimed at enriching Ako ang Saklay's initiatives. NEUST's Comprehensive Program for Empowerment and Development (COPED), serving as the university's extension flagship program, promises comprehensive delivery of extension services to augment Ako ang Saklay's endeavors.

In a pivotal segment of the meeting, Mr. John Derrick Samin, the RET Focal Person, elucidated the framework of the Social Innovation Laboratory (SINSIL), elucidating its significance, purpose, and typology. The laboratory, poised as a catalyst for innovation and social impact, promises to be a conduit for transformative change within the community.

Moreover, the NEUST delegation toured Ako ang Saklay's ongoing projects, including mushroom production and hydroponics, showcasing the organization's commitment to sustainable agriculture and livelihood initiatives. Furthermore, they explored the organization's facilities, including a computer laboratory, library, and backyard vegetable garden, witnessing firsthand the holistic approach to community development undertaken by Ako ang Saklay.

The recent visit of NEUST to Ako ang Saklay Inc. serves as a shining example of the transformative power of collaboration in promoting inclusive development and enhancing societal welfare. With both entities joining hands on this collaborative venture, the prospect of a brighter and more empowered community looms promisingly on the horizon.