In a significant move towards enhancing education accessibility and quality, Pangasinan State University (PSU) and the Department of Education (DepEd) Pangasinan II Division have solidified their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
This agreement sets the stage for the implementation of the EPangarap Yan: Edukasyon para sa Pangarap, at Kabuhayan program, an extension program initiated by the College of Teacher Education at PSU-Sta. Maria Campus.
The signing ceremony, attended by esteemed officials from both institutions, marked a significant moment in their shared commitment to uplift educational standards and address the challenges faced in the region.
Dr. Elbert M. Galas, the esteemed President of Pangasinan State University, emphasized the institution’s commitment to becoming a trailblazer among state universities in the ASEAN region. “As PSU strives for recognition, we integrate structured Research, Extension, and Innovation Agenda. This collaboration with DepEd Pang II aligns with our mission to cater to the educational needs of our community,” he stated.
He emphasized the integration of research, extension, and innovation in PSU’s agenda, highlighting the collaborative efforts with DepEd Pangasinan II to cater to the educational needs of the division and beyond. “We are unified in our mission to elevate education levels not only within the division but also across Region I and the entire country,” Dr. Galas affirmed.
The same sentiment was echoed by Dr. Marciano U. Soriano, Jr., Assistant Schools Division Superintendent of Secondary Department, who hailed the collaboration as a powerful advocacy. “EPangarapYan signifies a cohesive partnership between PSU and DepEd Pang II,” he remarked during his opening message.
Dr. Vivian Luz S. Pagatpatan, Schools Division Superintendent, praised the program’s noble objectives. “Literacy is the bridge between misery and hope,” she emphasized, citing the pressing need to address challenges such as low literacy rates. Dr. Pagatpatan expressed optimism that EPangarapYan would elevate the reading competencies of learners, thus paving the way for a brighter future.
Meanwhile, Dr. Gemma M. De Vera, Dean of the College of Teacher Education, elucidated on the various projects under the extension program, underscoring their significance in addressing educational gaps within the community.
Moreover, Dr. Razeale G. Resultay, Vice President for Research, Extension, Innovation, and Gender Development, extended gratitude to DepEd Pang II for embracing the partnership. As a gesture of appreciation, PSU representatives presented DepEd officials with jackets, reciprocated by mugs symbolizing DepEd’s gratitude.
Reflecting on the collaborative effort, Dr. Russel Jim V. Tamayo, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent of Elementary Department, encapsulated the program’s essence with the adage, “It takes a village to raise a child.” This sentiment encapsulates the collective responsibility shared by both institutions in nurturing the next generation.
The MOU signing ceremony was attended by other esteemed officials, including Dr. Armando C. Junio, Director for Extension, Dr. Jun S. Camara, Center Head for History, Culture, Arts, and Innovative Education, alongside PSU-Sta. Maria officials: Dr. Walter Nocasa, Dr. Marlon L. Perado, and Ms. Mielyn T. Dumanay, among others from DepEd.
With this collaborative effort, PSU and DepEd Pangasinan II are poised to make significant strides in advancing education, ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to realize their dreams and contribute meaningfully to society.
