St. Paul University Philippines (SPUP) and the Global Peace Foundation – Philippines (GPFPh) spearheaded the celebration of the 2022 International Day of Education by launching a webinar series on “Solutions to Education Challenges with Moral and Innovative Leadership” on January 26, 2022, via Zoom Platform. The pioneering episode on “Reimagining Education for Peace and Development” brought together educational leaders, experts, and peace advocates who shared and discussed the integration of peace in the educational system and as a social responsibility along community development and service.
Sr. Merceditas Ang (President, St. Paul University Philippines) discussed the embodiment of Peace in SPUP’s teaching-learning process using the mnemonic: S.P.U.P through P.E.A.C.E. It stands for Sustainable and Holistic Paulinian Education Ushering in Quality of Life for People and the Global Community through Peace, justice and respect for person and planet, Empathy and understanding of uniqueness and differences, All to all and inclusive services and relationships, Collaborative and supportive of the common good, and Endeavoring towards unity and progress for all.
Atty. Alberto Muyot (Chief Executive Officer, Save the Children Philippines) highlighted education for Peace and Development through their engagement in promoting children’s rights. He presented the breakthroughs of SCP where children are protected and educated to achieve immediate and lasting change in their lives.
Mr. Vincent Quah (Director for Education Industry, Microsoft Asia Pacific) focused on the future of learning for peace and development. He presented three-point agenda relevant to reimagining education towards peace and development. These are technology integration, culture of change, and goal mindset.
Dr. Tony Devine (Vice President for Education, Global Peace Foundation) emphasized that (positive) peace is rooted on universal values characterized by trust and relationship. He underscored the formation of students’ character and values towards peacebuilding and challenged educators to be models for sustainable peace.
The conference was introduced by Dir. Ann Marlita Montejo (Education Director, Global Peace Foundation Philippines), while Dr. Isbelita Borres (Dean of Graduate School, Cagayan de Oro College PHINMA) moderated the conversation of the speakers and open forum after their presentation. The virtual engagement was participated in by delegates from Philippines, Kenya, Uganda, Northern Ireland (UK), Republic of Ireland, USA, Paraguay, Brazil, India, and Iraqi Kurdistan.
