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898 ALS Learners 'Graduate'

March 01, 2007

Eight hundred ninety eight (898) former out of school youth formally completed ELSA’s Alternative Learning System -A&E program last March 10, 2007. Held at the Mindanao State University Gymnasium in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, the culminating activity was attended by the 898 learners coming from Cotabato City, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Shariff Aguak, Guindulungan, and Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao.

Thomas Crehan, Chief of USAID’s Office of Education, delivered a keynote message to the ALS completers. In his talk, he expressed his admiration of the learners’ courage and determination by choosing to attend the ALS program. He also commended the Instructional Managers and other community members who support the OSY. Together with Dr. Zenaida Domingo, ELSA’s Deputy Chief of Party, and Dir. Hamid Ladjakahal, DepEd-ARMM EQuALLS Coordinator, they distributed the certificate of completion to each learner.

Two of the ALS completers also shared their experience and insights during the program to inspire their fellow learners. "The ALS classes helped me study for the A&E test and in acquiring useful skills," said 20-year old Alebai Mustapha, ALS completer and A&E passer. "Because of this I gained hope in being able to study again. Let's not lose hope in reaching our dreams." Today, Alebai is running her own small store so that she can earn enough for college education.

ELSA’s Alternative Learning System – A&E program integrates DepEd’s Alternative Learning System modules as well as Consuelo Foundation’s Civic Engagement and Skills for Life Training. The program, which aims to reintegrate the OSY back into the formal school system, has engaged more than 1,000 learners in the ARMM and helped mainstream hundreds of OSY back to school.