By Mikee Natinga Norico
With smiles of accomplishment, Dr. Annalee Cocjin (right), Prof. Sharlene Gotico (left), and Prof. Rea Angelica Villeza (center) gather for a group photo after successfully completing the Whole Person Education Academy 2024.
Three faculty members from Central Philippine University (CPU) have successfully completed the Whole Person Education Academy (WPEA) 2024 cohort. The program, organized by the United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia (UBCHEA) and delivered by the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU), aims to equip higher education institutions with the knowledge and skills to implement a whole person education approach.
Dr. Annalee Cocjin, Department Chairperson of the DLMCH; Prof. Sharlene Gotico, faculty member, DLMCH and Associate Director, Quality Assurance and Accreditation Center; and Prof. Rea Angelica Villeza, Chairperson of the Department of Religion and Ethics represented CPU in the WPEA program. The hybrid course consisted of online sessions from August and a week-long residential training at ADMU from October 21-26, 2024.
The WPEA brought together faculty members from 12 participating universities across Asia, including India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos, and the Philippines. The program’s objective is to build the capacity of representatives so they can implement training programs to introduce and advance whole person education in their respective institutions.
Whole person education is a holistic approach that focuses on the intellectual, social, and moral development of students. It emphasizes critical thinking, ethical exploration, service, and community engagement. By adopting this approach, institutions can cultivate well-rounded individuals who are not only academically competent but also socially responsible and morally sound.
CPU’s participation in the WPEA is a testament to the university’s commitment to providing a quality education that goes beyond academic excellence. The faculty members who attended the program will now bring their newfound knowledge and skills back to CPU to contribute to the development of a more holistic and transformative learning experience for students.