UMak’s Initiative for a More Inclusive and Supportive Learning Environment
The Human Resource Management Office conducted the Mandatory Training (ManTra) for the faculty members entitled Nurturing Wellbeing and Inclusivity: A Seminar for Educators on Enhancing Classroom Dynamics on October 3, 2024, at the UMak Auditorium.
The ManTra features Assistant Professor John Christopher Castillo of Mapúa University, an Educational Psychology and Social Work expert. “Is it really bad? Of course, we have to know our students. After all, we’re building an inclusive environment, a classroom that is safe for everyone. But do we really understand our students especially now that the generation is different?” With the new and diverse generations of students, he elaborated on the significance of having a platform for expressing the students’ mental health concerns.
Dr. Castillo also discussed the effects of depression, identified stressors that lead to anxiety, and highlighted signs of declining mental health in students. He explained how culture, environment, and social media critically influence one’s mental stability.
Vice President for Academic Affairs, Prof. Ederson Tapia in his message to the faculty members said “Mantra is a saying or a guide that you keep on repeating to yourself – your philosophy in life. We’ve been doing ManTra for several years now… It is always a challenge to talk about the technical details of what it is to become a teacher… It’s important that all of us, even those who are more senior than the others, that we continue to be teachable.”
Meanwhile, in his video message, University President, Prof. Elyxzur Ramos shared that the ManTra is part of the university’s preparation to become a training provider for the city government employees, thereby upgrading the faculty members’ capabilities “ManTra is an investment to be able to equip ourselves better because this is a challenge to us to continuously improve. Why? Marami pa po tayong gagawin at marami pa po tayong kailangan pang gawin para po sa ating mga estudyante at ngayon sabi ko nga po, madadagdagan pa.”
This year’s ManTra aims to promote the educator’s well-being, enhance social inclusivity, improve classroom dynamics, and build a supportive educational community.
Written by: Ms. Jamie Lyra Dela Cruz
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