As online and modular classes continue to persist amidst the pandemic, less fortunate students are further hindered from having access to quality education.
In response to this, students from different SUC’s and programs work together in advocating accessible education through a nonprofit, youth-led, and socio-civic organization, Education Outside the Walls (EOW).
John Ricky Asuncion, a Gerry Roxas Leadership Awardee and the founder of EOW, said, “Education can transform the lives of many Filipino children, especially those in far-flung communities. When all of them are given access to quality education, their communities will progress which will result in a better nation.”
To date, EOW is composed of students from the University of the Philippines-Los Baños, University of the Philippines-Baguio, President Ramon Magsaysay State University- Iba, Our Lady of Fatima University, and Saint Louis University.
The organization seeks to unite like-minded individuals that are dedicated in helping the country achieve its goal for inclusive quality education. When asked about what the organization stands up for, Asuncion said, “The organization sees education as a way to empower the youth, and the youth, in turn, will be equipped with knowledge and skills to empower their communities.” The organization aims to bridge the gap between less fortunate students and quality education as a means of bettering the nation.”
AWARENESS AND INVOLVEMENT
Through advocacies, EOW aims to promote awareness among the youth regarding the importance of accessible quality education for all.
“ The organization is not limited to catering to the less fortunate students, it is important that we provide those who are privileged enough to have access to quality education, the information regarding what we do and why we do it, ” said Elise Jazriel Soriano, Education and Research Head.
The problem regarding the inequality of education in the Philippines cannot be solved by a few students alone. The power of collective youth action is needed to help make a difference.
As it stands, the pandemic has magnified the inequality of education in the Philippines, and students who have the means to continue their education amid the pandemic are finding ways on how to help their fellow students keep up with the online and remote learning setup. This is to ensure that no one is being left behind.
In partnership with various schools and organizations, EOW will conduct educational discussions, seminars, and social media awareness vis-a-vis some issues in the education sector.
“By conducting these seminars and introducing the existence of the organization to them, we will be able to help the youth channel their passion to volunteering” she adds.
DISSEMINATION OF EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS
Sagip Edukasyon, the flagship project of EOW’s first beneficiaries would be the students of Barangay New Kalalake, Olongapo City.
They will be providing assistance through the allocation of school material packages (inclusive of notebooks, pens, pencils, and paper), pocket WiFi’s, and a computer/s as a means to ensure inclusive education for the students this upcoming S.Y. 2021-2022 which DepEd has estimated to begin in August.
“This is only the beginning. We plan to help students from other barangays in the future,” said Joanna Small, Advocacy and Community Affairs Head.
EOW is open to volunteers and partnerships with organizations that share the same goal.
For more information, contact [email protected]
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