The Department of Education (DepED) underscored the important role and contribution of Filipino youth to nation-building in this year’s celebration of National Students' Day (NSD).
DepED Acting Secretary of Youth Affairs and Special Concerns Dexter A. Galban said that the 2022 NSD is a “very special day.”
“It's your day,” Galban said. “We believe in the significant contributions of our learners, our students,” he added.
Galban explained that DepED acknowledges that the students --- or the Filipino youth in general --- are all “integral to the development” of the Philippines. “We need you. The people need you,” he added.
In the NSD program led by Region VI (Western Visayas), Galban shared what was shown in a nationwide survey on the Youth Education Agenda given to DepEd during the 2022 Philippine Youth Convergence wherein the students expressed their commitment to leadership and engagement, improving quality and access to education, and environmental enrichment.
Related to this, Galban said that the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Youth Affairs and Special Concerns - Youth Formation Division (OASYASC-YFD) is also researching programs and collaborations to empower the youth and prepare them for the future.
Under the guidance of Galban and Rovin James Canja, Officer-in-Charge of the division, DepED said that OASYASC-YFD will focus on topics, including leadership, good governance, and civic relations; health and welfare; climate action, agriculture, and protection; innovation, entrepreneurship, and future readiness; and gender and social inclusion.
Meanwhile, among the highlights of the 2022 NSD celebration included activities “Laro Tayo, A Playful Throwback to Traditional Filipino Games” and the formal initiation of National Play Advocacy Week to promote and support every child's right to play.
Also part of the celebration are performances including #YOUthSpeaks, a live advocacy show with selected students from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, along with adolescent and adult advocates and the Student Fiesta: The Ultimate Online Competition, a compilation of online games and competitions.
The event also featured #KayangKabataan: Film Showing of Filipino Youth Advocacies and Initiatives, Giling, Galing, and Gilas ng Kabataang Pilipino: Filipino Youth's Talent Show; special performances; and main events celebration with some distinguished guests and students.
Meanwhile, Gablan also encouraged students to view success not as a destination but as a journey of fulfillment.
“Learning theories through your class subjects is essential to succeed in life, have a better future, have a better standing, to have a better outlook,” he said.
“But as you progress, may you not forget to follow your heart as you serve others as part of your school, your community, and our nation. May you enjoy doing the things you love and may they make you truly happy,” he added.
The celebration is under Republic Act No. 1369 titled “An Act Recognizing the Observance of November 17 of Every Year as the National Students’ Day.”