by: Robert Noe C. Pagapang
In a grand celebration of educational excellence and youth empowerment, the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Olongapo City proudly hosted the much-anticipated DepEd Youth Convergence 2023. This momentous event took place at Subic Peninsular Hotel, gathering Youth Formators from across the region, fostering a collaborative platform, aimed to empower and inspire participants who cultivate the next generations of leaders and change-makers.
The event was organized to empower Youth Formators and enable them to create a positive impact to learners, enhance their leadership skills, and promote holistic development. This year, Olongapo City had the esteemed privilege of being the host city, and the Schools Division Office left no stone unturned in ensuring its success.
The event was graced by Dr. Eleonor C. Cayabyab, Chief of the Schools Governance and Operations Division and was fully supported by the City Government who believe in the vital role of youth formators in molding the minds and characters of the next generation.
The theme for this year’s convergence was “Uniting and Transcending the Formators’ Skills in Achieving an Enabling Environment for Holistic Youth Development.” It focused on strengthening the role of Youth Formation Coordinators (YFCs) as a major partner of the school and community in promoting learner-centered, inclusive, and liberating youth programs. The activity also allows YFCs to give feedback for policy recommendations and provide different perspectives on how Youth Formation Division should operate in implementing mandated Programs, Projects, and Activities (PPAs). The event featured a series of workshops, plenary sessions, panel discussions, team building, convergence night, and open forum, all designated to inspire, challenge, and equip the participants with the necessary tools to bring out the best in their clienteles.
The hosting of DepEd Youth Formators Convergence 2023 was not only a remarkable achievement for the SDO-Olongapo City but also a testament to the city’s commitment to education and youth empowerment. By bringing together the youth formators and stakeholders in the field of education, the event left a lasting impact on all participants, fostering collaboration and rapport that will undoubtedly bear fruit in the future.
As the event came to close, participants left with renewed sense of purpose and inspiration, ready to embark on their transforming journey with a shared commitment to empower youth and build a brighter future for the nation. The legacy of DepEd Youth Formators Convergence 2023 in Olongapo City will continue to resonate, inspiring generations of formators and young leaders to come.
