The Faculty of Education (FEd) held its Recognition Rites and Fellowship Program for the 2024 graduates on 6 December 2024, at the Centennial Center for Digital Learning (CCDL) Auditorium, UPOU Headquarters.
The event was opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Asst. Prof. Charisse T. Reyes. She mentioned that being in an Open University, contrary to popular belief about online education, is not ”an easy-peasy kind of journey” and therefore, this recognition and graduation of the students is indeed an achievement to be celebrated.
Another inspirational message was given by Dr. Jonathan Barcelo, an alumnus of the PhD in Education degree, major in Chemistry. Addressing the graduates, he mentioned that the “chances of getting their first success are diluted by too much competition, lack of opportunities or mismatch of skills and academic background.” But despite this possibility, he encouraged them to prepare for such through a realization that “skills, collaboration, creativity, mental fortitude, and emotional intelligence are more valuable than shining medals and colorful ribbons” when it comes to real-life situations.
The event proceeded to the recognition of graduates. It was then followed by a message from the undergraduate representative, Ruel G. Demain, Bachelor of Education Studies, magna cum laude, leaving the students with an encouragement “lagi’t lagi para sa bayan, patuloy tayong sumulong.”
A short intermission served as a break before the awarding of the Latin Honors, Dean’s List and Chancellor’s List, and the pinning of the Pahinungod volunteer graduates. Following this was the message given by Mr. Bayani T. Vicencio, PhD in Education graduate, major in Biology. He shared experiences in his dissertation journey, coming to the lessons he learned, and ending with the line that “the journey may not always be smooth and easy but it is always worthwhile.”
In a recorded video, CHED Secretary, Dr. J. Prospero E. De Vera III gave his congratulatory message to the graduates reminding them never to forget giving well-deserved thanks to all the people who supported them, from the beginning of their simple dream up to this time of receiving their graduation diploma. The event was formally closed with some reminders and a message from Asst. Prof. Roja L. Rivera, the FEd Faculty Secretary. The singing of the UP Naming Mahal marked the end of the Recognition Program, and the transition to their fellowship.
Written by Jestine Crhistia V. Gatdula ♦ Edited by Myra C. Almodiel and Anna Cañas-Llamas
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