Few days ago, I received a message from the Executive Director of CHED Unifast, informing me that the data we shared regarding our students was mentioned during the CHED budget hearing at a plenary session.
Three years ago, our knowledge about our students was limited to basic information such as the high school they attended (whether public or private), gender distribution, age range, and so on. However, with the onset of the pandemic, we incorporated additional survey questions to assess their ability to adapt to digital learning. Yet, it was only when we fully transitioned to the community college framework after my exposure to the US Community College system that our perspective changed.
In order to develop impactful programs and ensure successful college completion and employment prospects, we realized the importance of gaining a deeper understanding of our students. This involved gathering information such as the size of their families, whether they are first-generation students, their employment status, any health issues they may have, their family income level, and the main breadwinner within their household, among other relevant details.
By acquiring this comprehensive knowledge, we became more confident in our ability to provide education that is not only accessible and equitable but also infused with compassion, empathy, and a sincere dedication to the fundamental purpose of education - alleviating poverty.
Today, I am happy to announce that our graduating class, is comprised of 11 Persons with Disabilities, 227 working students, 29 individuals hailing from indigent families, 116 students from large families with six or more siblings, 99 breadwinners, 152 first-generation graduates, with 53 of them also having work while studying, and 73 being the eldest child in their families, and the rest who have their own struggles too. You served as our inspiration when we developed initiatives such as the corporate boutique, community pantry, and an admission policy that grants automatic acceptance to first-generation students. We also created the Pro Plus program to support working students and those with health disabilities, among several other endeavors. Your impact made us strive to become a better institution, while also providing an avenue for the community to participate in your education. As one college, as one community, we have worked together to enhance the Philippines and transform lives. Today, we are not only celebrating each individual's achievement, but also acknowledging the families who achieved their first diploma and those who aspire to a better life. We acknowledge the industries that supported the college in producing these about to become exceptional professionals and the government, which aims to foster productive and responsible citizens. We have every confidence that you will seamlessly transition into your new roles. Once again, congratulations to the graduates, their proud parents, and all who believed in and supported them. From tomorrow onwards, you will no longer be our students, but rather, Mabalacat City has gained 1067 valuable community partners. We extend a warm welcome to everyone attending this remarkable MCC graduation ceremony in celebration of the Class of 2023.