Written by Dr. Vilma Deponio
A graduate student from the Master of Arts in Education (MAED) program at the University of Baguio, Jamby Baldago, was recognized with the Best Paper Award in the Graduate School Cluster during the 2025 Regional Research Colloquium held at the University of Baguio. Themed “Meaningful Collaboration Through Research,” the event was organized by the University of Baguio and co-hosted by Baguio Central University.
This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, providing a platform that fosters innovation and collaboration among students and makes research discussions and academic growth more accessible. Among a strong group of fellow researchers, Ms. Jamby’s study titled “Designing a Narrative-Based Social Inquiry Model for Teaching Araling Panlipunan” stood out for its originality, cultural relevance, and potential to enrich social studies instruction through narrative-driven inquiry. The event showcased the impressive scholarship and diverse perspectives of all participants, reflecting the vibrant research culture across graduate institutions in the region.
The awardee is a proud summa cum laude alumna of the University of Baguio, having completed her Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Social Studies. She currently teaches Senior High School at UB, where she continues to inspire learners through her commitment to transformative and contextualized education.
Her research journey began in senior high school, where she served as the lead researcher for her award-winning study “Financial Literacy and Saving Practices of the University of Baguio Senior High School,” which earned her the Best in Research Award during her graduation under the General Academic Strand. As an undergraduate, she again took the lead in a collaborative study titled “Learning Experiences and Challenges Encountered by University of Baguio Teacher Education Students in Online Learning,” which garnered First Runner-Up award in a university-wide research competition.
Now pursuing graduate studies, her latest work integrates narrative pedagogy and social inquiry to enhance the teaching of Araling Panlipunan, aiming to foster critical thinking, historical awareness, and civic engagement among learners. Her research not only demonstrates academic rigor but also reflects a deep commitment to culturally responsive and student-centered education.
The impact of the colloquium extended beyond individual recognition—it fostered regional academic collaboration, encouraged research aligned with global educational goals, and highlighted the role of research in shaping inclusive and innovative learning environments. The University of Baguio proudly celebrates her achievement as a reflection of its enduring legacy in nurturing educators and researchers who lead with purpose, innovation, and heart.
