Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI) launched a three-year training program for school leaders titled “Mentoring Future Leaders for Nation-Building” through an online kick-off session on July 7, 2023. It was facilitated by Ateneo De Manila University, with the topic of “Philippine Educational Challenges and Solutions.”
It was followed by a three and a half day in-person training on July 25-28, 2023, featuring lectures, group discussions, workshops, and industry visits. The training follows the International Certificate in Educational Studies in Leadership (CESL) modules by the University of Nottingham, United Kingdom and The HEAD Foundation, Singapore. Thirty school leaders nationwide were selected to be part of the program’s first batch of trainees.
The SBFI’s new training program guides participants through transformation of the self, the school, and the community by challenging them to develop and implement action plans. The modules are expected to improve competencies in instructional leadership, contextual problem solving, and stakeholder engagement to solve schools’ pressing problems. The length of the program allows it to be sustainable, with progress continuously monitored to see long-term impact on students and the schools’ overall environment. The trained principals will also be part of a professional fellowship group who will serve as mentors for new batches of trainees.
“We acknowledge that classrooms alone will not completely address the current state of the country’s educational system. We need to complement it with training programs for teachers and school leaders. Improving the quality of education also needs a long term and structured approach,” said Rafael Simpao, Jr., SBFI Chairman.
Beginning in 2023, one batch of approximately 30 school leaders will be admitted annually for the program. While priority will be given for those coming from schools where SBFI has previously donated classrooms, slots for school leaders from other public schools will still be given. The Department of Education (DepEd) is involved through the nomination of school leaders, along with program accreditation and monitoring to ensure program success.
“The launch of this three-year, in-service training program reaffirms our shared commitment to support the professional development of our school principals. With effective leadership, principals can ensure an enabling and supporting environment for quality teaching and learning process,” said Dr. Gina Gonong, DepEd Undersecretary for Curriculum and Instruction.
To learn more about SBFI’s projects and how you can contribute, visit www.securitybank.com/foundation.