CBSUA student leaders take action for Hiraya
By Avegail T. Temporal
UNDER the “HIRAYA: GAD @ Your Service Child Caring Program,” the CBSUA student leaders have undertaken a proactive response to the GAD Center’s mandate as outlined in RA 10410, also known as the Early Years Act (EYA) of 2013.
The initiative stands as a platform for student leaders to actively contribute to fostering strong, resilient, and empowered communities. Emphasizing inclusivity, collaboration, and local problem-solving, the program aims to improve the quality of life and instill a sense of shared purpose among community members.
By aligning community engagement initiatives with specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, the program strives to enhance its impact and contribute to a broader global agenda.
Activities such as peer teaching, educational kit distribution, book drives, feeding programs, gender-sensitive storytelling, and various educational sessions form a cohesive framework connecting local actions to a global movement for sustainable development.
Led by the Dawani student core group, the CBSUA GAD Center successfully launched the “HIRAYA: GAD @ Your Service Child Caring Program,” themed “Share a Gift, Nurture a Child,” benefitting over 30 children within the CBSUA-Pili Compound on September 23, 2023.
Notably, three partner student organizations—Rodeo Club-CBSUA, League of Future Mathematics Teachers, and Masining na Pagpapahayag (Retorika)—provided essential support, actively facilitating activities such as storytelling, games, feeding programs, and educational kit distribution.
During the event, Avegail T. Temporal, the Dawani convener, highlighted the program's vision and forthcoming activities, with plans to extend its impact beyond the campus through collaborations with other organizations and institutions. Dr. Glenn E. Redecilla, the GAD Resource Center Director, stressed the importance of these activities anchored to RA 10410 in laying a strong foundation for a child's future development, education, and overall well-being.
The program's second wave significantly expanded, involving nine student organizations from the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture. Held at the Covered Court of Brgy. San Antonio, Pili, Camarines Sur on October 31, 2023, the event featured diverse activities, including storytelling sessions, games, talent showcases, a photobooth corner, and educational kit distribution.
Volunteers and facilitators came from dedicated organizations like the League of Future Mathematics Teachers, Masining na Pagpapahayag (Retorika), CBSUA Rodeo Club, Guild of English Majors, Society of Biology Students, Peer Facilitators Organization, League of Pre-service Elementary Teachers, Science Teachers Active Regents, and College of Development Education-Student Council.
The heart-warming success of these initiatives was made possible through collaborative efforts among a diverse array of partner organizations, each playing a pivotal role in executing and overseeing different facets of the program.
The success and the realization of the shared vision would not have been possible without the cooperation and guidance of key figures such as Dr. Glenn E. Redecilla, GADRC Director, the Punong Barangay of San Antonio, Mr. Arnulfo Ricafort, and the support of Dr. Allan B. Del Rosario, CBSUA-Pili Campus Administrator, and Dr. Alberto N. Naperi, SUC President IV.
The term “Hiraya,” symbolizing aspiration and hope, encapsulates the program's shared vision for a brighter future, particularly focused on children within communities.
Advocating for gender equality and building lasting impact, the program actively encourages challenging traditional gender norms and promoting leadership roles, contributing to progress across social, economic, and environmental spheres.
Through education, capacity building, advocacy, and unwavering support, CBSUA student leaders aspire to shape a more equitable and inclusive society.