Written by Daphne Dee Dogcio and Raul Ubando
On February 15, 2025, the University of Baguio High School (UBHS) successfully conducted its annual Leadership Training, a day-long event designed to empower student leaders with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to drive positive change in their school and community. Held at the University of Baguio campus from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the training brought together students for a series of engaging and transformative activities focused on leadership development, teamwork, and crisis management. The training specifically targeted Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). By aligning the training with these SDGs, participants were equipped to address critical issues related to health, well-being, and social justice in their communities.
A Holistic Approach to Leadership
The training program was carefully planned to address key areas essential for effective leadership. Sessions included mental health awareness, communication skills, and disaster preparedness, ensuring that participants were equipped to handle both personal and community challenges. One of the highlights of the day was the Amazing Race, a team-based activity that combined physical challenges with leadership-themed tasks. Students worked together to solve problems, make quick decisions, and navigate dynamic scenarios, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and adaptability in leadership.
Building Essential Life Skills
A critical component of the training was the First Aid and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) workshop, whereby students learned vital emergency response techniques. From basic life support to disaster preparedness strategies, the session provided practical skills that empower student leaders to act confidently and responsibly during a crisis. These skills are not only valuable in school settings but also in real-world scenarios, making the training both relevant and impactful.
Visionary Planning for a Better Future
The event also featured an engagement planning session, where student leaders collaborated to conceptualize future initiatives aimed at fostering a more proactive, inclusive, and service-oriented school community. This activity encouraged students to think critically about their roles as leaders and how they can contribute to creating a positive and supportive environment for their peers.
Inspirational Insights from Guest Speakers
The training was further enriched by the presence of distinguished guest speakers who shared their expertise and experiences. Ms. Jenny Wynne Daniel, a UBHS alumna, delivered an inspiring talk on the qualities of effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of integrity, empathy, and resilience. She also highlighted the unique characteristics of a Filipino leader, encouraging students to embrace their cultural identity while leading with purpose and compassion.
Additionally, Ms. Joy L. Roque, a faculty member, spoke about the importance of creating and sustaining safe spaces within the school environment. She emphasized how student leaders play a pivotal role in fostering an inclusive and supportive community where every individual feels valued and empowered.
Guidance from Mentors and Faculty
Throughout the day, UBHS faculty members and guest speakers provided mentorship and guidance, sharing their knowledge and inspiring students to embrace their leadership roles with confidence and responsibility. Their support was instrumental in creating an environment where students felt motivated to learn, grow, and lead.
A Day of Transformation
By the end of the training, student leaders left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of their roles in shaping the school environment. The event not only equipped them with practical skills but also instilled in them the values of servant leadership, resilience, and community engagement.
UBHS’s Commitment to Leadership Development
The University of Baguio High School remains committed to nurturing young leaders who are prepared to face challenges and drive positive change in their communities. The Leadership Training 2025 is a testament to UBHS’s dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders, ensuring they are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to make a meaningful impact in the world.
As the event concluded, participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to grow as leaders and vowed to apply their learnings to create a brighter future for their school and community. The Leadership Training 2025 was not just a day of learning—it was a stepping stone toward a legacy of empowered and compassionate leadership.
