In a landmark initiative to foster inclusive education, the City College of Cagayan de Oro, through its Center for Alternative Learning System (ALS), successfully hosted an orientation seminar entitled “Advancing Inclusive Education at the City College: A Basic Orientation Seminar on ALS Implementation” on April 25, 2025, via Zoom.
The event brought together key figures in the field of ALS from across Northern Mindanao, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to accessible, equitable, and flexible learning opportunities for all.
Featured session speakers included Mr. Rolly Ortiz Jr., Education Program Specialist II for ALS, DepEd Bukidnon; Ms. Freizie Hazil Naranjo, Education Program Specialist II for ALS, DepEd Misamis Occidental; Ms. Rubeneth Salazar, Education Program Specialist II for ALS, DepEd Cagayan de Oro City; and Dr. Ray Butch Mahinay, Vice President for Extension and Social Development, City College of Cagayan de Oro. These experts shared insights on effective ALS implementation, community engagement strategies, and the transformative impact of non-formal education in empowering out-of-school youth and adults (OSYAs).
The program was facilitated by Ms. Herna Francis Mae Tano, Director of Extension and Outreach of the City College, and concluded with a message of support from Dr. Jestoni Babia, College President III of the City College of Cagayan de Oro.
The orientation is part of the institution’s broader mission to align its educational and community extension goals with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly **SDG 1 (No Poverty)**, **SDG 4 (Quality Education)**, **SDG 5 (Gender Equality)**, and **SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities)**.
By integrating ALS into its academic and extension services, the City College reaffirms its role as a catalyst for inclusive growth and lifelong learning in the region.