Advancing professional growth and strengthening instructional competencies among educators, the University of Northern Philippines, through the College of Teacher Education’s Master of Arts in Education program, continued its Teacher Capacity-Building Seminar Series on October 23, 2026 via a hybrid setup at the Metropolitan Institute of Arts and Sciences (MIAS) in San Ramon, Magsingal, Ilocos Sur.
The seminar, titled “Securing Future: Mentoring the Mentor Program,” proceeded with Modules 4 and 5, focusing on “Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Education” and “Student-Centered Learning Approaches through a Gender-Responsive Lens,” respectively. The program opened with welcome remarks from Mrs. Genevieve Delmonte, Assistant Principal of MIAS, followed by an inspirational message from Dr. Rolando Navarro, UNP Vice President for Academic Affairs, who highlighted the significance of continuous professional development in equipping educators with relevant knowledge and effective teaching approaches.
The seminar featured three resource speakers from UNP who shared their expertise on emerging educational technologies and inclusive teaching practices. Dr. Dave Fontejon discussed the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in teaching and learning, the ethical integration of AI in education, and AI-assisted instructional design. Dr. Edmar Paguirigan explored student-centered learning approaches, highlighting inquiry-based, problem-based, and collaborative learning strategies. Meanwhile, Dr. Eleanor Belizar tackled gender-responsive education and advocacy, emphasizing the importance of inclusive practices in addressing learners’ diverse needs.
The activity aimed to enhance teachers’ competencies in integrating AI into classroom instruction, developing effective learning resources, and implementing inclusive, learner-centered teaching strategies. It also emphasized the responsible use of technology and the integration of gender-responsive practices to promote equitable and supportive learning environments.
Through this continuing professional development initiative, the UNP College of Teacher Education reaffirms its commitment to equip educators with relevant knowledge, practical skills, and innovative approaches that respond to the evolving demands of education and advance inclusive, effective, and learner-centered teaching and learning.
Article by Arthur V. Pascua.
