The Ugnayan ng Pahinungód UPOU, in collaboration with the UP Open University (UPOU) Office of Public Affairs (OPA) and the Department of Education (DepEd) Region X, conducted a UP Admission Orientation for Grade 11 students in Northern Mindanao. Held from 24-26 April 2024, this initiative aimed to democratize access to quality higher education by extending outreach efforts to under-represented areas.
Over 1,000 students from Lugait National High School, Manticao National High School, Salay National High School, Villanueva National High School, and Alubijid Comprehensive National High School participated in the program.
Led by Asst. Prof. Queenie Ridulme, Director of Ugnayan ng Pahinungód UPOU, the orientation provided an overview of the University of the Philippines (UP) System’s academic offerings. Ms. Lovelyn Petrasanta, OPA Junior Community Relations Associate, presented information on the diverse range of courses and programs available across UP’s constituent universities. Information about UPOU, UP’s cyber university, was also provided. Ms. Charlene Mina, Junior Project Associate at Ugnayan ng Pahinungód UPOU, equipped the students with knowledge on the application process for the UP College Admission Test (UPCAT). This crucial information aimed to help the students gain knowledge on the step by step process of the application. Ms. Jestine Crhistia Gatdula, Senior Office Assistant, was also part of the Ugnayan ng Pahinungód UPOU who provided valuable support.
The program’s success also stemmed from strong collaborations. Mr. Gines Cacayan, Mathematics Education Program Supervisor of DepEd Misamis Oriental Division, played a key role in coordinating with the participating schools. Additionally, Dr. Marino Dal, Mathematics Education Program Supervisor of DepEd Region X, provided valuable support.
In addition to the orientation, Ugnayan ng Pahinungód UPOU will conduct UPCAT simulation sessions from 5-9 August 2024, further preparing students for the upcoming exam scheduled for 10-11 August.
This program exemplifies the University’s commitment and mandate to making quality higher education accessible to all Filipinos. By collaborating with regional institutions, UPOU can effectively reach out to schools across the country, ensuring that opportunities for UP education are widely available.
Written by Lovelyn Petrasanta ♦ Edited by Myra C. Almodiel and Queenie Roxas-Ridulme
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