SLSU–TO, SK Malitbog Strengthen Youth Leadership through Project TASK

To strengthen youth leadership and enhance community engagement, the Southern Leyte State University – Tomas Oppus Campus (SLSU–TO), through its English Education Program, in partnership with the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation of Malitbog, launch Project TASK (Training Adequacy for Sangguniang Kabataan). Held from June 25 to 27, 2025, at Baybayon ni Agalon in Albuera, Leyte, this three-day program, the first of many activities, gathered young leaders and professionals for a series of workshops and training sessions aimed at equipping SK officials with essential leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Led by Dr. Sybill Krizzia G. Ledesma of the English Education Program, the project brought together the SK Federation of Malitbog under the leadership of Hon. Josh Zyron Orais, along with SK chairs across the municipality. The project also featured expert speakers and facilitators, including Dr. Mark Galdo, Mrs. Judy Paz, Mrs. Mary Cris Orias, and Mrs. Ma. Jovillea Palanca, all of whom shared insights and guided participants in strategic planning, public speaking, and event management.

Project TASK was developed to strengthen youth involvement in local governance by enhancing the leadership and organizational skills of SK officials. The project focused on assessing existing SK programs, designing effective training plans, and developing competencies in event planning, public speaking, and hosting.

The training concluded with the launching of the SK Malitbog’s Strategic Plan—SIKAD (Strategic Initiatives of the Kabataan for Advancement and Development), a collective output that reflects the shared vision for empowered and active youth leadership in Malitbog. SIKAD includes 11 creative projects designed by the SK participants themselves. The aligned Sustainable Development Goals include SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).