ILOILO CITY (PIA) — The Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division of Passi City partnered with the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) to boost mental health campaigns by providing psychological first aid to students.
The recent Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing of these two institutions delved into DepEd’s Katatagan Program and ISUFST’s RISE (Resilience in Schools through Empowerment) Project, which underscores mental health concerns in basic education schools such as bullying, academic stress, and suicide prevention.
ISUFST president Dr. Nordy Siason expressed the university’s commitment to the cause and the importance of nurturing students’ well-being.
“This partnership is a critical step toward building a resilient educational environment where mental wellness is integral and accessible to all,” Siason said.
This collaboration aside from providing psychological first aid, is also aimed in providing related training for educators and strengthening mental wellness support for students.
Under the MOA, ISUFST will provide training, counseling services, and career and mental health resources tailored to the Passi City division and school’s needs. The programs will be inclusive and accessible to all students.
Meanwhile, the three-year RISE Project will focus on building emotional resilience in educators and students, emphasizing handling mental health crises and concerns.
“This is not a short-term fix. We are committed to securing the resources and support necessary to ensure this initiative is successful in the long run,” Siason added.
For her part, Dr. Ma. Roselyn J. Palcat, Schools Division Superintendent of DepEd Passi City, echoed how vital it is to teach resilience and responsiveness in the face of adversity, noting that mentors and guidance advocates must be equipped to help students cope with the academic pressure.
Palcat also mentioned the mental health challenges in the academe brought by the pandemic.
“Teaching resilience goes beyond mental toughness. It’s about giving educators the right tools to be supportive and responsive. We must prioritize mental wellness and provide a safe space for students to share their struggles,” Palcat conveyed.
To recall, the DepEd Schools Division of Passi City has won DepEd’s regional award for innovation due to its mental health drive, attributed to its robust partnership with relevant institutions. (AAL/LMLE/PIA Iloilo)
