EL Fellow, SLSU advance Early Childhood Education through ₱100,000 gadget donation

Child Development Workers (CDWs) in the municipalities of Sogod and Tomas Oppus received digital learning devices worth ₱100,000 through a collaborative extension initiative spearheaded by Prof. Maryann Miller, an English Language (EL) Fellow under the United States Embassy currently serving at Southern Leyte State University (SLSU).

The donation was made possible through a GoFundMe fundraising campaign initiated by Prof. Miller to support technology-enhanced learning and professional development among Child Development Workers in Southern Leyte. The project successfully garnered support from several generous donors from the United States who recognized the importance of equipping frontline early childhood educators with modern technological resources.

The initiative was implemented through the collaborative efforts of the Regional English Language Office (RELO), under the guidance of Mr. Jeffrey McIlvenna, and Southern Leyte State University. The project reflects a shared commitment to strengthening educational services and community development through international cooperation and local engagement.

During the turnover ceremony, tablet devices were formally handed over to representatives from the local government units of Sogod and Tomas Oppus. The donated gadgets are expected to enhance the capacity of Child Development Workers in delivering quality early childhood care and education services through improved access to digital resources, training materials, and educational applications.

Present during the turnover ceremony were Prof. Maryann Miller; Dr. Francis Ann Sy, Vice President for Research, Innovation, Publication, and Extension Services; Engr. Jonelle Tablada, Director of Extension Services; Mr. Exekiel Ed A. Elizan, Head of the Center for Foreign Language and Culture; Dr. Joseph Añavesa, Program Head Coordinator of BSEd English; Mr. Isaiah Caesar Escaño, English Instructor; and Mr. Eric Degorio, Research and Extension Staff of Southern Leyte State University.

Representing the Municipality of Tomas Oppus were Hon. Gerard Escaño, Sangguniang Bayan Member, and Ms. Jessa Resus-Gamayon, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO).

For the Municipality of Sogod, attendees included Atty. Jose Ramil G. Golo, Vice Mayor; Ms. Princes Grace D. Navales, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO); and Ms. Felipa Luzon, Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Coordinator.

This meaningful partnership demonstrates how international collaboration, community engagement, and educational extension initiatives can create lasting impacts at the grassroots level. Through the generosity of donors and the dedication of SLSU and its partners, Child Development Workers are now better equipped with digital tools that will support their vital role in nurturing the learning and development of young children in Southern Leyte.