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US Ambassador turns over livelihood equipment to 3 ELSA school beneficiaries

March 01, 2007

US Ambassador to the Philippines Kristie Kenney turned over Technology and Livelihoood Education (TLE) equipment to 3 ELSA school beneficiaries in Jolo, Sulu. Along with USAID Mission Director Jon Lindborg, USAID representatives, and local officials, the formal turnover ceremony was held in Sulu National Highschool last March 27, 2007. Over half a million pesos' worth of TLE equipment were given to Sulu National Highschool, Jolo National Highschool, and Jolo School of Fisheries, benefiting more than 5,000 students. The TLE equipment will support trade courses offered in the schools, including dressmaking, food processing, carpentry, welding, and the like.

"This project is the result of the different partnerships. It will help the youth gain practical skills," said Ambassador Kenney as she addressed the students in her brief message. "This is all for you - the greatest resource of the region."

Student Nhasron Omar, speaking in behalf of his fellow students, thanked the people who worked together to bring the intervention to their school. "But I believe there is one thing more important than what our school has received," he said in his acceptance message. "It is the opportunity to be united in love and peace for the sake of our school, and for the sake of the youth."

ELSA, through the Philippine Business for Social Progress, provides technology and livelihood, audio-visual, and science equipment to schools in Mindanao. To date, 30 schools have been given educational equipment to enhance learning and provide hands-on livelihood training for the students.