THE NATIONAL Teachers College (NTC), an Ayala-led educational institution, has made remarkable strides in promoting inclusion.
Recently, they received the prestigious Global Inclusion Award from the International Forums of Inclusion Practitioners (IFIP) which actively works with the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to meet Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 on quality education.
This award recognizes individuals, institutions, and networks that have actively worked towards fostering inclusion across various domains, including architecture, education, social impact, and technology.
NTC Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Edizon Fermin received the school’s Global Inclusion Award at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris.
NTC has been cited for its COPES framework, a comprehensive approach aimed at supporting student success and reducing attrition. COPES has the following distinctive elements, to wit:
* Challenges: NTC identifies and addresses challenges faced by students, such as academic difficulties, financial constraints, and psychosocial issues.
* Organizations: NTC fosters a supportive environment through student organizations, clubs, and associations. These provide opportunities for networking, mentorship, and personal growth.
* Programs: The college offers various programs to enhance student learning, including academic scholarships, learn-and-earn opportunities, and a Professional Employment Program (PEP).
* Events: NTC organizes events that promote engagement, collaboration, and holistic development. These events create a sense of community and belonging.
* Support Groups: NTC establishes support groups for students, ensuring they have access to counseling, guidance, and resources.
COPES has significantly reduced attrition rates and improved academic completion. By implementing academic scholarships, learn-and-earn opportunities, and a Professional Employment Program (PEP), NTC ensures immediate career placement for its students.
This year, seven of the 149 awardees were from the Philippines, and NTC was one of only three higher education institutions. NTC leveraged the extensive academe-industry networks led by or associated with Ayala and its own Employment Partner Network (EPN).
“For a century now, NTC has measured itself not by whom it excludes, but by whom it includes. Its institutional narrative will always be focused on empowering learners with diverse needs to succeed in life and contribute to nation building,” said NTC Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Edizon Fermin.
Added Pam Wu, NTC EVP and COO: “Through innovative programs, personalized support, and inclusive teaching practices, NTC strives to empower every learner to reach their full potential, enrich their lives, and thrive in a globalized world.”
Six years ago, Ayala Corporation, through its education arm, AC Education Inc (AEI), acquired control of NTC marking a significant milestone in the education sector.
NTC, founded in 1928, holds the distinction of being the first school in the Philippines to offer General Education leading to a Bachelor of Science in Education. With a rich history of excellence in teaching, growth, and inclusion, NTC serves approximately 10,000 students across basic and higher education levels. Its programs extend beyond education, covering fields such as Accountancy & Business, Arts & Science, Hospitality Management, and Information Technology.
The decision to acquire NTC was not merely a financial transaction; it was a strategic move aligned with Ayala’s vision which recognizes education’s critical role in nation-building. Ayala believes that NTC can significantly contribute to improving the Philippine education system. NTC’s track record of producing quality educators who teach in both public and private schools positions it as a vital player in this endeavor.
Ayala Corporation started investing in the education sector in 2012 through AEI, with a vision of empowering Filipino parents and their children by delivering inclusive, quality education that enables significantly improved employability for its high school and college graduates. AEI achieves this through proprietary student value-add programs, experiential and industry-based curricula, systematic teacher training, an emphasis on values and life skills, and a strong employer-partner network. AEI’s programs have consistently and significantly improved the average hiring rates and starting salaries of its graduates.
In May 2019, the merger between Ayala Education Inc (AEI) and iPeople (of the Yuchengco Group) was successfully completed. Following the merger, iPeople became the listed holding company for Ayala’s investments in education. (totingbunye2000@gmail.com)/PN
