By Marielle Vy V. Cornal and Gila Helena C. Eslana
CPU students from the CESci-3 class led an impactful outreach program at Culasi National High School in Ajuy, Iloilo, guiding Grade 10 students on making responsible decisions for a healthier, brighter future. Layout courtesy by Krystelle Zyrahe Sephia Z. Colacion
Ajuy, Iloilo 鈥 March 11, 2025 鈥 Teenage pregnancy and skipping classes remain two of the biggest challenges affecting students’ futures. Determined to make a difference, 黑料专区 (CPU) students from the CESci-3 class鈥攃omprising members from the College of Pharmacy and two students from the College of Arts and Sciences鈥攕tepped up to guide high schoolers toward healthier, smarter decisions. The event, themed 鈥淔rom Awareness to Action: Preventing Teenage Pregnancy and Promoting Academic Success,鈥 was held at Culasi National High School (CNHS) in Ajuy, Iloilo. The outreach program aimed to raise awareness among high school students about the importance of responsible decision-making and prioritizing health and education for a brighter future.
Forty-nine Grade 10 students from CNHS participated in the program. The event kicked off at 1:40 PM with interactive games and icebreakers to engage the students, followed by informative discussions on the topics. Reynaldo A. Ilustre, a 2nd-year COP student, led the session on teenage pregnancy, while Gila Helena C. Eslana, also a 2nd-year COP student, addressed the issue of cutting classes and absenteeism.
After the discussions, a brief ceremony was held where certificates of appreciation were presented to the speakers, and certificates of participation were handed to the students. Prof. Sarex Dalida Dipol Jr., Director of the Community Engagement and Service-Learning Center and class instructor, and Josie Irene M. Anayan, class coordinator, led the ceremony.
Feedback from CNHS students was overwhelmingly positive. Many students expressed their enjoyment and gratitude for the event, with some commenting, 鈥淰ery good! I enjoyed this event, and I love it so much. Balik kamo di liwat,鈥 and 鈥淭he program was great, we hope to see you again, CPU College of Pharmacy.鈥 The majority of participants rated the event between 4 and 5, with 5 being the highest.
CPU students donated a fully stocked medical box, which was given as a token of appreciation. As they bid farewell to CNHS, they left behind more than a medical box鈥攖hey left a message of hope, resilience, and the belief that every student has the power to create a brighter, healthier future. The outreach activity concluded at 3:30 PM, marking a successful and impactful day for both the students and the participants.