Written by Diana Lyn Tamayo
November 22-23, 2024 – the University of Baguio Laboratory Elementary School (UBLES) hosted an inspiring backyard camping event, themed: Empowering Scouts for the next century and beyond.
This special gathering brought together alumni, boys and girls scouts, adult leaders, patrol leaders, and non-teaching staff fostering a spirit of environmental stewardship, community building, and camaraderie.
The event kicked off with an engaging knot-tying session, expertly led by one of our dedicated alumni. Their hands-on approach ensured that each scout mastered essential skills, from basic knots to more complex techniques. This activity underscored the importance of preparedness and resourcefulness in everyday life.
Tent pitching followed, with the alumni trainer namely Inigo Alterado guiding the young scouts in setting up their tents. This exercise not only taught practical camping skills but also emphasized teamwork and collaboration. The sight of neatly pitched tents was a testament to the participants’ determination and newfound expertise.
A highlight of the camping was the first aid training session conducted by Miss Zeni Agpawan, our UBLES nurse. Miss Zeni’s comprehensive workshop covered crucial first aid techniques, equipping the scouts with knowledge that could one day save lives. All attendees deeply appreciated her commitment to imparting life-saving skills. After that, the event featured an educational visit to the Baguio City Museum.
This trip allowed the scouts to explore the rich cultural heritage of their city, deepening their understanding of local history and traditions. The museum visit was not only informative but also an inspiration for the scouts to value and preserve their cultural legacy. Throughout the camping event, documentation was meticulously handled by an alumna who took on the role of capturing the essence of each activity. Her dedication ensured that the memories and learnings of the event were preserved, allowing participants to relive the experience and reflect on their growth.
Troop leaders played a vital role in the success of the camping event. They guided the scouts in cooking meals, ensuring everyone participated in preparing and sharing food. This activity highlighted the importance of self-sufficiency and the joy of communal living. The troop leaders also coordinated yell presentations, encouraging the scouts to express their enthusiasm and team spirit vocally and creatively.
The backyard camping event at UBLES was more than just an outdoor adventure; it celebrated sustainability, skill-building, and community. The involvement of alumni as trainers, mentors, and documenters enriched the experience, bridging the gap between past and present students. As the scouts packed up their tents and bid farewell to the campsite, they carried with them not only new skills and knowledge but also a renewed commitment to sustainability and community service.
This event exemplifies the enduring impact of UBLES and its alumni, proving that the values instilled during their elementary years continue to inspire and empower them to contribute meaningfully to society, achieving the goal of SDG 4: Quality Education to pass knowledge to the next generation even after one’s schooling has finished.
