In a rapidly evolving world of work where industries evolve continuously and global challenges call for innovative and sustainable response, educational institutions are faced with a critical question: How can we effectively prepare students to thrive in the future world of work?
Colegio de San Juan de Letran Calamba maximizes digital educational technology to equip students with future-ready skills by integrating innovative tools into instruction and fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability. Tech-enabled learning environments immerse students in real-world problem-solving, preparing them to meet the evolving demands of the modern workforce. Yet, the future of work is shaped not only by technology but also by the growing need for sustainability knowledge and competencies. The Colegio’s response extends beyond embracing digital educational technology in teaching and learning.
Colegio de San Juan de Letran Calamba is a Catholic educational institution committed to the total human development and improved quality of life of its stakeholders, and to the promotion of a socially responsive community through a global and innovative education that is Dominican in orientation. It also grounds its mission in ESG principles equally vital in shaping ethical, socially responsible, and environmentally conscious graduates.
The Colegio believes that true student success lies not only in knowledge acquisition but in the ethical and wise application of that knowledge. Through the dynamic integration of ESG initiatives, the Colegio ensures its graduates are not only prepared for the workplace’s evolving demands but are also ready to lead with conscience. This commitment reflects the Colegio’s core values, Conscience, Discipline, and Excellence, the principles that guide all aspects of academic and character formation.
Preparing students for the future means cultivating leaders who are environmentally conscious, socially aware, and committed to ethical governance. ESG principles take center stage through a comprehensive framework encompassing institutional efforts, academic integration, and specialized training and certification.
Several teaching and learning activities have been implemented to promote ESG awareness and integration:
- GAWACO Program (Gardening, Waste Management, and Composting) by the Basic Education Department fosters environmental responsibility through hands-on gardening and composting.
- Vegetarian Cuisine Exploration by the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management highlights sustainable culinary practices and low-carbon, healthy dining.
- Knights Café, operated by BS Hospitality Management students, promotes healthy food choices, using fresh herbs grown by students and eco-friendly packaging.
- Graduate School and Professional Studies conducted ESG-focused sessions on awareness, reporting, and investing, also extended to industry practitioners.
- Green Prototypes and Computing Projects developed by the Schools of Engineering & Architecture and Computer Studies & Technology emphasize sustainability and innovation.
- Makipamuhay Program immerses students in marginalized communities, fostering inclusive development and active citizenship.
- ESG-integrated outcomes are embedded in Letran Quality Enhancement Courses.
- Healthcare Sustainability Projects are led by the School of Nursing.
- National Service Training Program (NSTP) projects are aligned with ESG principles.
- Science, Technology, and Society (STS) course culminates with ESG-focused activities.
To further enhance the quality of education, the institution incorporates immersive educational technologies, offers a Robotics Academy in the Basic Education Department, provides vast online library access and reference, and implements a centralized student research program to promote inquiry and academic output. To bridge education and employment, the Colegio strengthens industry-academic collaboration and offers micro-credential programs aligned with emerging workforce needs.
From Theory to Praxis: Environmental Care, Social Change, and Responsible Governance
The Colegio’s commitment to ESG principles is further realized through its impactful community extension programs. These initiatives not only benefit partner communities but also provide students with real-world opportunities to apply classroom theories, what the institution calls “theory to praxis.”
These extension activities are anchored on SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, promoting community development through collaborative academic initiatives. These initiatives serve a dual purpose by uplifting communities and building student competencies in leadership, collaboration, and social responsibility.
Likewise, equal priority is given to health and well-being. The Medical and Dental Clinic Unit spearheads health advocacy through regular seminars and wellness campaigns. With resident doctors, dentists, and nurses, the unit actively promotes health awareness in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross and conducts annual physical exams for employees.
Through ESG-driven learning, the graduates are not only future-ready but future-responsible, equipped with core competencies like systems thinking, ethical and risk-based decision-making, and functional skills in sustainability, resource management, and stakeholder engagement.
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Source: CSJL