by Engr. Helyn Kidsolan, Extension Program Coordinator
The Electrical Engineering (EE) Department of Saint Louis University School of Engineering and Architecture has taken a step towards addressing the safety concerns of Barangay Happy Hollow residents by conducting a pre-test assessment survey for the extension program, “Exploring the Use of Economical and Solar-Powered Street Lamps” on 26 September 2023.
This preliminary activity aimed to gauge the knowledge, attitude, and potential impact of implementing solar-powered street lamps before their installation in selected community areas. The need for this initiative was identified through a Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA) conducted by SLU’s Community Extensions and Outreach Program Office (CEOPO) on 25 March 2023.
One of the pressing issues identified in the RRA was the “absence of street lights in Puroks 1, 2, and 4.” The undeveloped roads and narrow footpaths in these areas make it challenging to install traditional streetlights. With this, residents have faced security issues during late nights, with reported incidents of robbery. Solar-powered street lights are being considered as a more feasible solution given the area’s terrain and altitude.
Before the pre-test assessment commenced, a preliminary briefing session was held with local authorities, led by Punong Barangay Mr. Joseph A. Sacley. Attendees included the SK Chairman, Ms. Tanya Lamsis; the Barangay Secretary, Ms. Ellen Esteban; and faculty members from the EE Department. During the briefing, specific locations for installing solar-powered street lamps were discussed.
Following the briefing, EE Department faculty members were assigned to designated Puroks within the Barangay to conduct the pre-test assessments. This on-site activity allowed for firsthand observation of the residents’ willingness to participate in and support the extension program.
The activity concluded with a brief discussion led by Mrs. Charmaine P. Mendoza, Director of CEOPO, highlighted the results of the RRA, which is the absence of street lights in certain areas of the Barangay. The collaboration between the EE Department and SLU CEOPO through the Binnadang Community Engagement System of SLU aims to address this concern.
