Promoting sustainable livelihood opportunities and harnessing renewable energy for community empowerment, the College of Technology (CTech) of the University of Northern Philippines conducted “Livelihood Through Green Energy: Technical Training on Solar PV Systems” on October 27–29, 2026, at the Ilocos Sur Provincial Jail (ISPJ) in Taleb, Bantay, Ilocos Sur.
The three-day initiative sought to equip participants with practical technical knowledge and skills in solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, highlighting the potential of green energy technologies to support sustainable livelihood development and open up opportunities for skills-based economic advancement.
The training was conducted under Project SILAW (Sustaining Inclusive Learning and Advancement for Welfare) which aimed to advance inclusive learning and expand opportunities for skills development. The partnership brought together UNP, under the leadership of University President Dr. Erwin Cadorna, through the Office of the Vice President for Research and Extension, headed by Dr. Fatima Rocamora, and the College of Technology, led by Dean Dr. Julius Moises Albalos, in collaboration with ISPJ under the supervision of Provincial Jail and Safety Officer Mr. Raymond Tabios.
Through this initiative, the partner institutions demonstrated their shared commitment to extend technical education beyond the university and make practical, livelihood-oriented training accessible to communities through collaborative capacity-building efforts.
Faculty members specializing in Electrical, Electronics, and Mechatronics Technology from the College of Technology served as trainers, delivering technical discussions and facilitating hands-on activities on off-grid solar photovoltaic systems. The training covered fundamental solar energy concepts, the identification and functions of system components, electrical wiring and connections, system assembly and installation, operational testing, and basic troubleshooting and maintenance. Through these learning sessions, participants gained practical exposure to the essential processes involved in setting up and maintaining solar power systems.
The persons deprived of liberty (PDL) actively participated in technical discussions, computation exercises, and practical training activities, demonstrating their engagement in acquiring knowledge and developing skills in renewable energy technology. By combining theoretical instruction with hands-on application, the training provided them with foundational competencies that could serve as valuable preparation for future employment, livelihood ventures, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Beyond technical instruction, the initiative highlighted the potential of education and renewable energy technology to support rehabilitation, personal development, and social reintegration. Through Project SILAW, UNP CTech continues to strengthen its community extension services and partnership with ISPJ by providing opportunities for PDLs to acquire practical, livelihood-oriented skills that promote self-reliance and productivity.
The initiative reflects the University’s commitment to extend technical education beyond the classroom and harness its expertise to create meaningful learning opportunities that can help participants prepare for productive lives and successful reintegration into society.
Article by John Jericho Arquines.
