LAPU-LAPU CITY, 09 JULY 2024 – In its continuous effort to empower and engage the youth, the Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday officially opens the 2024 Learners’ Convergence PH (LearnCon PH) 2024.

“Your role in this endeavor is not just important. It is essential. Each one of you has a unique perspective that can drive change, inspire innovation, and foster a more dynamic and relevant education system,” Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte stated in her opening message.

With the theme “#GalingKabataan: Pagsulong Nang May Tatag, Pagtaguyod ng Lipunang Maunlad,” the third LearnCon PH highlights the talents, resilience, and potential of Filipino learners. This event aligns with DepEd’s commitment to creating a positive learning environment and promoting inclusive education.

The six-day summit aims to build on the successes of the Philippine Youth Convergence (PYC) in 2022 and its rebranding to LearnCon PH in 2023. With delegates from 218 Schools Division Offices (SDOs) across 17 regions, it is the largest gathering of learners, youth leaders, and education stakeholders in the country.

The summit features thematic sessions on leadership, governance, civic engagement, health and well-being, gender and social inclusion, climate action, environmental protection, innovation, entrepreneurship, future readiness, and cultural arts.

Concerned divisions from DepEd Central Office will also hold capacity-building programs on disaster preparedness, health advocacy, sports club action plans in public schools, and the Learners’ Rights Congress.

During his message of support, DepEd Assistant Secretary for Operations Dr. Dexter A. Galban noted that in response to the National Learners’ Declaration authored by learners during the previous LearnCon PH, the Department has driven and effectively implemented key reforms aimed at improving the educational journey and future careers of every learner.

“At the end of the day, we made all those things happen. We made that change together because you spoke up and we listened. At hindi man lahat sa atin ay magaling kumanta at sumayaw, kayong lahat ngayon ay binabansagan ko nang miyembro ng BINI – Mga BINIyayaan ng puso, galing at talino, BINIgyan ng pagkakataong baguhin ang mundo, at BINIbida nating lahat,” shared Dr. Galban.

The opening event was also attended by keynote officials, including Senator Imee Marcos, DepEd Undersecretary and Chief of Staff Michael Wesley Poa, DepEd Region 7 Regional Director Salustiano T. Jimenez, Lapu-Lapu City Congresswoman Hon. Ma. Cynthia King Chan, and Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard Chan.

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