Saint Mary’s University joins the nationwide weeklong Brigada Eskwela of the Department of Education from June 9 to 13, 2025. SMU’s participation integrated community immersion and dialogue with stakeholders, highlighting the importance of support, collaboration, and mutual development. The University’s involvement in Brigada Eskwela emphasizes commitment to community engagement, educational development, and partnerships with IPEd schools and indigenous cultural communities.

On June 9, the Center for Information and Communications Technology and Computer and Electronics Technical Services Office staff capacitated Pinayag National High School teachers in Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya, on Microsoft and Google Apps Essentials and PC and Computer repairs. On June 10 and 11, the NSTP-ROTC unit gave joy to Pawak and Baguingey Elementary School learners through raincoats and rainboots, while the Marian Emergency Response Team (MERT) volunteers provided basic first aid training. Faculty members of the School of Teacher Education and Humanities – Mathematics Department and the School of Graduate Studies spearheaded the school supplies donation with the DOST-SEI CBPSME Scholars. At the same time, the BSED Math and BS Math Students facilitated the literacy activities with Ipil-Cuneg Elementary Schools on June 13. 

The Community Engagement Coordinators of the Basic Education Departments facilitated the stakeholders’ meeting. While the extension activities were delivered, Mrs. Rhia Gagarin (JHS), Ms. Joy Balawa (GSD), and Mr. Arnold Villanoza (JHS) simultaneously facilitated the discussion on the evaluation of the implemented community engagement activities in School Year 2024-2025 and prioritization of projects to be implemented this SY 2025-2026. Mrs. Gagarin and Ms. Ruthie Padilla (STEH CE Coordinator), Ms. Balawa, and Mr. Villanoza spearheaded the meeting at Pawak, Baguingey, and Ipil-Cuneg Elementary Schools on June 11, 12, and 13, respectively. Their respective colleagues assisted them. Community residents, school heads and teachers, and members of the Barangay Councils also attended the stakeholders’ meeting.

The Community Engagement and Indigenous Peoples Studies Center initiated SMU’s participation in the nationwide Brigada Eskwela.#