QCU Expands Executive Course for Barangay Leaders on Out-of-School Youth Support with USAID Grant
Building on the success of its initial implementation in 2022, Quezon City University (QCU) has once again took the lead in organizing the Expanded Executive Course for Barangay Leaders on System Delivery Support for Out-of-School Youth (BLeSDS for OSY) in Quezon City. The simple opening of classes was held on September 7, 2024, at QCU San Bartolome Campus.
More than 68 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials from 32 barangays in Quezon City enrolled in the executive course, which was designed to equip barangay leaders with the tools and knowledge necessary to support and reintegrate out-of-school youth (OSY) into education and employment pathways.
This marks the second phase of the highly regarded initiative, following a new grant awarded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) – Education Development Center (EDC) under the Second Chance Opportunities Program – GAIN Grants.
From SEEDS Grant to Expanded Impact
The first iteration of the BLeSDS program was successfully held in 2022 under QCU’s leadership, funded by the USAID SEEDS Grant, which laid the groundwork for this transformative community intervention. The project garnered recognition for its effectiveness in empowering barangay leaders to address youth disengagement through practical, localized solutions.
Dr. Theresita V. Atienza, QCU President, highlighted the importance of this expansion in her opening remarks. “In 2022, we witnessed how impactful this course was in helping barangay leaders become proactive change agents in their communities,” Dr. Atienza noted. “Thanks to USAID and EDC’s continued support, we can build on that foundation and offer even more comprehensive training to address the evolving challenges faced
by our out-of-school youth and replicate it in Pasig City and Angeles City this year.”
Scaling Up Through USAID’s Support
This second phase of the program allows QCU to not only revisit the successful strategies employed in 2022 but also introduce innovations tailored to the current needs of local communities. The course now includes expanded modules on Green Justice, Climate Change, and Impact Assessment, empowering barangay officials to craft sustainable, community-led interventions for youth development.
QCU’s decision to scale up the initiative is driven by a deep commitment to ensuring that barangay leaders from Quezon City and beyond—including Barangay and SK officials from Pasig City and Angeles City—are equipped with the necessary skills to foster inclusive and resilient communities. With the USAID grant, the program’s scope has expanded, providing even more barangay leaders with the opportunity to benefit from QCU’s cutting-edge training and leadership modules.
A Proven Formula for Success
The BLeSDS for OSY initiative has established itself as a model for grassroots community engagement, with QCU at its helm. The 2022 pilot program yielded promising results, encouraging more than 180 barangay leaders to take actionable steps in supporting out-of-school youth through community initiatives, local partnerships, and policy changes.
As the organizing force behind both phases of the BLeSDS program, QCU is not only enhancing its role as a leader in local governance and education but also cementing its partnership with international development organizations like USAID. Through this project, the university continues to demonstrate its capacity to address the pressing social challenges that affect both its immediate community and the nation at large.
Looking Forward: Long-Term Vision
The ongoing BLeSDS program exemplifies Quezon City University’s dedication to lasting community development. Dr. Atienza emphasized the importance of sustaining these initiatives beyond the training sessions: “This is not just a course, but a continuous partnership between QCU, barangay leaders, and our international partners. We envision long-term solutions for out-of-school youth that will create lasting impacts on their lives, families, and communities.” As QCU continues to lead the way, it remains focused on ensuring that every step taken by the barangay leaders in this program translate into tangible outcomes for the OSY
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