The University of the Cordilleras – College of Engineering (UC CoE) and Fort Del Pilar National High School (FDPNHS) have officially established a strategic academic and community partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). The agreement was formally represented by Ms. Salome C. Fangkingan, School Head of FDPNHS, and Dr. Rose Ellen N. Macabiog, Academic Dean of UC CoE, marking a shared commitment to advancing digital literacy and technological exposure among senior high school learners.

Designed to run from September 2026 to August 2027, the collaboration aims to enhance the ICT competencies of Grade 12 students and provide them with hands-on experience in emerging technologies. Under this initiative, the UC Department of Computer Engineering will lead term-based ICT training sessions, equipping high school students with practical, future-ready skills. Additionally, UC CoE will conduct periodic assessments of FDPNHS’s ICT laboratory facilities and equipment to ensure an optimal environment for technology-based learning.

This extension initiative directly reinforces UC CoE’s commitment to community engagement and academic outreach while advancing several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 4 (Quality Education): Enhances student learning by delivering relevant digital skills and modern technology education beyond standard curricula.
• SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): Prepares senior high school learners for tertiary education and future careers in the rapidly growing technology sector.
• SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): Fosters innovation by exposing youth to emerging technologies and improving local school ICT laboratory infrastructure.
• SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Demonstrates the power of institutional collaboration by bridging higher education expertise with basic education needs.

Through this one-year partnership, the UC College of Engineering continues to champion educational empowerment, ensuring that young learners in the local community are equipped with the technological tools needed to thrive in a digital world.