Teachers and staff share their journey in strengthening Indigenous education in APC

At the heart of APC is a story of resilience and hope. The teachers and staff, many of whom were previous APC students, not only witnessed the school’s growth but also played essential roles in sustaining the community. Their reflections offer a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of providing education in a remote, indigenous setting.

From dream to reality

Maura, APC School Manager and teaching Social Studies, shared the history of APC that began as a dream of tribal elders seeking to provide education for the children in Bendum. In 1992, the community elders’ dream of a school became reality, drawing inspiration from local figures like Apu Palamguwan, a revered leader known for his ability to foresee the future, and Apu Palagsulat, a literacy advocate. This vision resulted in a curriculum that is responsive to the needs of the community, focusing on areas such as agroforestry, traditional dressmaking, and animal production, all while integrating cultural subjects in the local language – Sa Inikagiyan Day (SID), and indigenous livelihoods – Sa Panginabuhian Day (SPD).

Embracing Indigenous identity through education

Mercy, one of APC’s first students and now coordinates Formation in the school, emphasized the community’s gratitude for the Jesuit support in creating an educational system that meets their unique needs. She explained how Indigenous Peoples’ education in APC has been pivotal in revisiting and developing the indigenous practices of the Pulangiyēn in Bendum. “Why should we learn our ways as lumad?” she asks. “Because through this education, we can return to our roots and understand who we are as Indigenous Peoples.” Mercy also highlighted the importance of integrating mainstream subjects like English, Science, and Filipino with their cultural identity, ensuring their traditions are not forgotten but sustained and developed with pride.

Strengthening cultural identity in education

Ivan Faith, who teaches English and is currently APC’s Academic Coordinator, spoke about the challenges faced by students who come from distant villages and stay in the dalēpaan. Despite these difficulties, APC staff strive to nurture their holistic development rooted in their cultural identity through activities like music, dance, and daily use of the local language – all integrated into the school curriculum. This connection with culture, she noted, helps students better engage in school and strengthens their commitment to learning. Despite the challenges that sometimes impede student progress, APC has seen increased enrollment due to unique efforts such as caravans to other villages in Upper Pulangi.

Gaup and community as sources of hope

Eneriza, APC alumna Batch 2024, reflected on the sources of hope that sustain their community. For her, the gaup (ancestral land) is a precious inheritance from their ancestors, and caring for it is paramount. “Money disappears,” she said, “but the gaup is what sustains us.” Parents play a crucial role in supporting their children through the many challenges of learning, and she spoke with deep gratitude for APC as the foundation of the community’s education. Eneriza also praised the Tribal Council for their guidance, helping the youth in staying connected to their culture.

Leadership with cultural roots

Thelma shared her hope for Indigenous education, envisioning students who not only succeed professionally but also maintain strong ties to their community and culture. She emphasized the importance of leadership, communication, and values rooted in their traditions, as well as a deep concern for their gaup – the land and all it encompasses, from the forests to the rivers. “Wherever our young people go, they should draw inspiration from our kagēna (way of life) and the gaup, so they never forget who they are.”

Through these reflections, it is clear that APC is more than just a school – it is community life that strengthens Indigenous identity. APC teachers and staff stand as educators and guardians of culture, ensuring that future generations can proudly carry forward the legacy of their ancestors.