Markus Castro
Security Bank Foundation and De La Salle University Empower Science Teachers to Create Community Solutions
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Twenty-nine junior high school science master teachers from across the Philippines have completed the third year of Security Bank Foundation Inc.’s Mentoring Future Leaders for Nation-Building Program for Science Teachers, strengthening their ability to use science education to address real-world community challenges.
Conducted at De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, the training focused on community-based science research and stakeholder engagement. It equipped teachers with practical skills to develop research projects that respond to local needs while building partnerships with parents, local government units, and other community stakeholders.
The initiative highlights how science education can extend beyond school laboratories and classrooms to help communities address environmental, livelihood, and public health concerns.
Research Projects Focus on Sustainability, Livelihood, and Health
During the training, participants presented proposed community-based initiatives covering environmental sustainability, livelihood development, and health education. These projects aim to connect scientific knowledge with practical solutions that can improve everyday life.
By identifying local challenges and working with community stakeholders, teachers can develop research initiatives that reflect the needs and priorities of the people they serve.
“The most meaningful learning happens when science is connected to people’s lives,” said Rafael Simpao Jr., chairman of Security Bank Foundation.
He emphasized that understanding local communities helps educators develop relevant, practical, and sustainable solutions.
Strengthening Teachers and Improving Student Learning
The program builds on improvements already reported across participating schools, including enhanced science laboratories, stronger teacher mentoring, and better student learning outcomes.
As teachers move from project planning to implementation, they will continue to receive guidance through online coaching and learning sessions. This ongoing support aims to help participants refine their research, address implementation challenges, and maximize the benefits of their initiatives.
The program also recognizes the importance of understanding community aspirations and everyday experiences when developing projects that create lasting change.
“To understand people’s hearts, look at what they dream of becoming, what they struggle with, what brings them joy, and what they value,” Simpao said.
This approach encourages teachers to look beyond academic requirements and consider how their work can respond to the realities of the communities around them.
Program to Culminate in 2027
The multi-year initiative will conclude in 2027, when participating teachers present their completed projects and demonstrate their impact.
The final presentations will highlight how science-based interventions have improved learning outcomes, strengthened teacher leadership, and built more resilient communities.
Through its partnership with De La Salle University, Security Bank Foundation continues to support science education and develop teacher-leaders who can apply their expertise to community development.
The Mentoring Future Leaders for Nation-Building Program for Science Teachers reflects a broader commitment to making education more relevant to everyday challenges and empowering Filipino educators to become catalysts for positive change.
For more information about Security Bank Foundation’s education initiatives, visit the Security Bank website.
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