THE Isabela State University (ISU) in partnership with the Philippine Normal University-North Luzon (PNU-NL) conducted a Trainers Workshop for Para Teachers Capability Training Program at the Climate Change Center, ISU Echague Campus on May 15, 2024.

According to Dr. Boyet Batang, ISU vice president for academic affairs, research shows that para teachers for the Agta community have a significant positive impact on student outcomes.

He said the dedication and hard work of both ISU and PNU-NL make a big difference in the lives of students.

"And as we look to the future, we want to know that we have the support of these two institutions, the Philippine Normal University-North Luzon Campus and Isabela State University," Batang said.

"We also need the full support of the administration of these great institutions and acknowledgment that we recognize the vital role we play and are dedicated to supporting this endeavor," he added.

The workshop aimed to come up with a teacher's guide and manual or any instructional material that the attendees can use once the training for para teachers commences.

The proposed para teachers are Grade 10 and Grade 12 graduates of the Agta community in the coastal town of Palanan in Isabela province.

ISU noted that with the help of Dr. Leticia Aquino, PNU-NL dean for academics and the hub, and Dr. Clemente Aguinaldo Jr., PNU Associate Dean Faculty of Teacher Development, the attendees will be guided in the navigation of the teacher's guide and manual.

During the event, Roy Layao, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples-Cauayan community development officer, also lectured on cultural sensitivity that the attendees must understand to promote and appreciate the different cultures of the Agta Indigenous Cultural Community within the northern part of Sierra Madre which the participants will also be working with.

The project, which is also in partnership with several local government units, started during a visit by PNU President Bert Tuga to ISU. This was further strengthened and established after ISU and PNU-NL had their benchmarking activity in Zurich, Switzerland.

With Batang as ISU executive director and provost, representing ISU president Ricmar Aquino, the training was also attended by Dr. Agnes Reyes, PNU-NL executive director and provost.