In a significant step toward advancing educational leadership, the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division of Ormoc, under the leadership of Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Carmelino P. Bernadas, has initiated discussions with Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) to establish a transformative partnership. This collaboration aims to implement Project EXCELLED – School Leaders Institute (SLI), a pioneering three-year capacity-building program designed to empower school heads and aspiring leaders with cutting-edge instructional and transformational leadership skills.

Project EXCELLED is tailored to address pressing challenges in the basic education sector, focusing on three critical pillars: the integration of innovative technology in classrooms, the advancement of inclusive educational practices, and the cultivation of a collaborative, continuously improving school culture. Dr. Bernadas emphasized that the initiative is uniquely designed to equip school leaders with the competencies needed to navigate the complexities of modern education effectively. “This project will focus on developing essential leadership competencies and skills needed to manage schools effectively,” Dr. Bernadas said. “It will also promote strategic linkages with local government units, teacher education institutions, and other stakeholders for support in funding, training, and accreditation.”

BiPSU President Prof. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., EdD., CHRP warmly welcomed the partnership, underscoring the critical role of synergy between basic and higher education institutions. “Our students in BiPSU come from DepEd schools,” Prof. Cañezo said. “It is crucial that we work together to ensure that these students are molded by visionary and competent leaders even before they enter higher education.” He affirmed BiPSU’s commitment to supporting the initiative, highlighting its potential to produce future-ready school leaders capable of driving systemic improvements.

As a foundational step, BiPSU and DepEd Ormoc are set to formalize their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which will outline the framework for joint efforts. To ensure the program’s effectiveness, BiPSU will conduct a comprehensive needs-based assessment to identify specific areas for intervention. Prof.  Cañezo emphasized that the partnership’s strategies will be data-driven, grounded in the assessment’s findings to deliver targeted, impactful support. This evidence-based approach will enable the initiative to address the unique needs of Ormoc’s educational leaders, fostering sustainable growth and innovation.

The partnership between BiPSU and DepEd Ormoc marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of educational excellence in the region. By combining the strengths of both institutions, Project EXCELLED is poised to redefine leadership in basic education, empowering school leaders to inspire transformative change and prepare students for a dynamic future.

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