Sorsogon State University held its first-ever completion rites on December 14, 2024, at the SorSU AV Hall, Sorsogon City Campus, for 96 4Ps parents who successfully completed a short-term course under the LOTUS 3.0 “Parents’ Education for Child-Learning Success” initiative. The program launched through a partnership between SorSU and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), aims to enhance educational outcomes for students by increasing parental involvement in their education.
The event began with the procession of the candidates for completion and the entrance of faculty and university officials. The ceremony included recitations of the university’s vision, mission, core values, and quality policy statement, followed by an overture from Instrumentos de Cordo.
Dr. Alfonzo L. Garcia Jr. (Dean, College of Teacher Education, Midwifery, Biology, and Nursing) presented the pioneer batch of LOTUS 3.0 completers. This was followed by the symbolic Pinning of Ribbons to honor the graduates. SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, Dr. Ryan V. Dio (Vice President for Research, Extension and Services), Hon. Ma. Ester E. Hamor (Mayor, Sorsogon City), and Ms. Priscilla C. Saladaga (4Ps Division Chief, DSWD ROV) each shared congratulatory messages, stressing the important role of parental involvement in children’s learning.
During the completion rites, President De Jesus emphasized, “Ang layunin ng programang LOTUS 3.0 ay mapunuan ang pagkukulang sa pag-aaral at kaalaman ng ating mga magulang, para mas lalo nilang maintindihan ang pinag-aaralan ng kanilang mga anak, makatulong at maging gabay sa kanilang pag-aaral…. Upang magampanan ang tungkuling ito, ang Pamantasang May Puso ay handang makipagtulungan sa LGU, partner agencies, at community stakeholders para tumaas ang antas ng edukasyon sa Sorsogon, lalong-lalo na ng 4Ps beneficiaries at iba pang nangangailangan [ng dagdag-kaalaman]..
Moreover, awards were given to the LOTUS 3.0 achievers, recognizing their outstanding accomplishments throughout the program. Ms. Rizza Guadalupe expressed words of gratitude to the volunteer teachers and faculty members for their time and effort in making the program a success. Certificates of Completion were also awarded to the graduates in recognition of their hard work and achievements. In addition, Ms. Dahlia Malazarte shared her personal experience of returning to school, inspiring everyone with her story. The ceremony concluded with the completers singing “Handog” by Florante, followed by the university hymn led by Mr. Tomas Encinares Jr.
The completion of the LOTUS 3.0 program highlights the university’s strong commitment to advancing educational opportunities for individuals, regardless of background. By supporting parents in their own learning, the initiative aims to break the cycle of learning poverty and empower families to play an active role in their children’s education. (SorSU PIO)