Santo Nino College Foundation, Inc. (SNCFI) proudly took part as a guest speaker and knowledge partner during the recently concluded three-day Capacity Building on Disaster Management and Partnership-Based Action Research spearheaded by the Department of Education (DepEd) Sultan Kudarat Division. The event brought together educators, school leaders, and stakeholders from across the province with the shared goal of strengthening disaster preparedness and promoting research-based approaches to resilience.

Representing SNCFI were Dr. Jun Y. Badie, Academic Director, Ms. Juliet C. Arellano-Castañas, LPT, MAEd, Quality Assurance Officer, and Sir Remar B. Barcibal, LPT, MAEd, Research Coordinator, who served as resource persons throughout the program. They shared valuable insights on disaster risk reduction, proactive leadership, and the integration of research in disaster management practices. Their sessions emphasized that schools play a vital role not only in delivering education but also in safeguarding communities by ensuring that learning continues even in times of calamity. They also highlighted how partnership-based action research empowers schools to generate practical solutions that respond to both educational and community needs.

The training drew active participation from representatives of the municipalities of Bagumbayan, Columbio, Esperanza, Isulan, Kalamansig, Lambayong, Lebak, Lutayan, Palimbang, President Quirino, and Senator Ninoy Aquino. With such wide representation, the program showcased a strong provincial commitment to disaster readiness, collective resilience, and sustainable education. By engaging multiple stakeholders, the training became a platform where ideas, strategies, and best practices were exchanged, laying the groundwork for stronger collaboration between institutions.

As a guest speaker institution, SNCFI’s contribution underscored the importance of building bridges between education and community engagement. The college’s involvement demonstrated its continuing mission of going beyond academics by equipping educators and learners with knowledge that prepares them for real-life challenges. By promoting disaster preparedness through education, SNCFI affirms its role as a partner in both safeguarding students and shaping communities that are resilient and adaptable in the face of emergencies.

This initiative also reflects SNCFI’s alignment with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By advocating for safe and inclusive schools, it supports SDG 4 (Quality Education); by embedding disaster preparedness in local school systems, it strengthens SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities); and by fostering collaboration between DepEd and partner institutions, it contributes to SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). These global linkages highlight how local initiatives, such as this training, can contribute to broader efforts for resilience and sustainability.

Through this engagement, Santo Nino College Foundation, Inc. reaffirms its strong commitment to education, leadership, and partnership. By sharing expertise and joining hands with DepEd Sultan Kudarat, the institution continues to inspire change, empower communities, and uphold its vision of providing not only quality education but also a culture of preparedness and resilience that will benefit generations to come.