UDM’s Barangay Governance Students Lead the Way in Community Support: Extension Program Fights Poverty

July 20, 2022— Universidad de Manila, Manila, Philippines

On July 20, 2022, the Universidad de Manila (UDM) launched its Associate in Barangay Governance Extension Program, a vital initiative that aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1) – No Poverty. This program empowers students from local barangays to actively participate in supporting community pantries, a critical resource for many families in need.

Fifteen dedicated students enrolled in the Associate in Barangay Governance program, alongside five UDM faculty members, took on leadership roles in organizing and managing these community pantries. Their responsibilities included sourcing donations from local businesses, collecting food and essential items, managing inventory, and ensuring that goods were distributed equitably to the most vulnerable families in their neighborhoods.

This hands-on experience not only provided essential support to the community but also offered the students valuable insights into the challenges of governance and community service. By working closely with the communities they serve, these students are helping to address immediate needs while gaining skills that will be crucial in their future roles as leaders in local governance.

The success of this extension program underscores UDM’s commitment to poverty alleviation through education and community engagement. By empowering students to take active roles in their communities, UDM is fostering a new generation of leaders who are equipped to make a positive impact in the fight against poverty.