Sharing the same mission of empowering future educators and strengthening the foundation of quality education, Biliran Province State University signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Education (DepEd) Biliran Division, renewing the long-standing partnership between the two institutions.

President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. represented BiPSU, while Biliran Schools Division Superintendent Ms. Lani H. Cervantes represented DepEd Biliran during the signing, which was held on September 9 at the Hyflex and Audio Visual Center (HAVC).

The MOA outlines the commitment of both parties to improve the quality of basic education in DepEd Biliran Division by focusing on the pre-service education of teachers. 

The agreement highlights several provisions, such as developing the competencies of Beginning Teachers in alignment with the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST), and applying their theoretical knowledge and pedagogical skills in real teaching-learning situations. Additionally, it aims to provide teacher interns with a comprehensive and realistic perspective of the teaching-learning process and day-to-day school activities. 

The agreement further underlines the importance of preparing interns to face the challenges of teaching in the new normal, especially with the changes brought about by recent global events.

Both parties also believe that aside from the usual teaching internship, an intensive field study is necessary to adequately prepare teacher interns for their future roles. As part of the agreement, BiPSU will coordinate with the Schools Division Superintendent and identified school heads to deploy Practice Teachers (PTs) and Field Study Students (FSSs). A maximum of two PTs will be assigned to a Cooperating Teacher (CT) per term, ensuring focused mentorship.

In his message, Dr. Cañezo reflected on the accomplishments achieved through the collaboration between BiPSU and DepEd Biliran Division, expressing his gratitude for their continued partnership in preparing future educators. 

“DepEd Biliran is truly our strong partner for many years in ensuring that our pre-service teachers are well-trained in the field before graduating,” Dr. Cañezo said. “We are very thankful to DepEd Biliran for weaving the future of our future educators with us.”

The university president also emphasized the significant role DepEd Biliran plays in contributing to BiPSU’s high passing rates and topnotchers in the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET), as it serves as the training ground for the university's teacher education students during their internship. 

“If we want to strengthen basic and higher education in the province, we also need to strengthen the internship program for our education students,” Dr. Cañezo added.

The ceremonial signing was witnessed by Vice-president for Academic Affairs Dr. Susan S. Bentor, School of Teacher Education (STEd) Dean Dr. Maribelle N. Zipagan, and Education Program Supervisor in Filipino Dr. Wilma S. Carreon.

Also present during the signing were Dr. Grace L. Concepcion, BSEd Program chairperson; Dr. Jinky M. Macabago, BECEd and BSNEd Programs chairperson; Dr. Joan J. Sinagpulo, BPED and BTLEd Programs chairperson; Dr. Greg O. Siat, BEED Program chairperson, STEd faculty members, student leaders, and education students.

Meanwhile, Dr. Zipagan expressed her enthusiasm about the renewal of the partnership, noting that it will open more opportunities for future educators. “Today, we not only celebrate past achievements, but also look forward to further enhancing and expanding this partnership to meet the evolving needs of education,” Dr. Zipagan said.

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