Classes has just started but the vibrant summer spirit is still felt by young cooperators as they build new friendships and discover their leadership traits during the Hataw sa Saya Ngayong Balik Eskwela 2018.
These activities were rolled out in all Saturdays of July as spearheaded by the Tagum Coop Youth Laboratory Cooperative Officers and Board of Trustees. There were fun and learning on July 7 for Davao del Norte and Panabo City Divisions at Sto. Tomas Central Elementary School Gym; July 14 for Compostela Valley Division at Nabunturan National Comprehensive High School Gym; July 21 for Tagum City Division at the New City Hall Atrium; and July 28 for Davao City Division at Matina Town Square.
This merriment showcased the talents of the young participants as they competed with other schools during their Art Workshops and Board Games, Singing Contests, Dance Contests and the Search for Youth Ambassador and Ambassadress 2018 wherein not only they paraded in their best uniforms, casual attires and superhero costumes but they also proved that overall beauty also includes intelligence which was evident as they answered smartly during the question and answer portion.
Ms. Jenalyn M. Rivera, Youth Program Officer, emphasized on the importance of this activity as it anchors the youth’s ability to foster a sense of community during the one-day program. Ms. Rivera also admits the overwhelming response of the schools regarding the activity stating that the number of interested participants reached twice from their target of 150 schools overall.
“It is also a great time for us to increase their awareness in saving money since this activity involves their parents who are fundamental influencers on how they handle their finances as they grow older, besides, it shows their ingenuity, originality,creativity, camaraderie and ability in building connections” Ms. Rivera adds.
Ms. Nona V. Anhao, Principal of Don Julian Rodriguez Sr. Elementary School was also pleased of the activity organized by the TCLC. “this activity greatly enhances our students’ talents and skills for them to use it when they get to high school and college.” In addition, Ms. Anhao also encouraged the parents to save in Tagum Coop because of the trust that they have in the established Cooperative. The school is also looking forward to attend the same activity next year.
Lastly, Dir Rosalina S. Argent, Member of the Board of Directors who joined the activity would like the students as well as the parents to keep in their minds the importance of saving. “The parents, more importantly, should guide their children on how to save money. Because someday, when they get older they will become models for all the youth members of Tagum Coop.” According to Dir. Argent, the concept of saving is so simple but has a great impact once they apply it in their lives. Tagum Cooperative and TCLC believes that the Hataw sa Saya Ngayong Balik Eskwela does not only bring merriment to the participants but also inculcated in their minds the importance of Financial Literacy which is one of the primary goals of the billionaire Coop.