Anchored on the theme, “Empowering Children in their Academics and Skills, the Saint Louis University (SLU) Sunflower Pedagogical and Developmental Center (SPDC) conducted the Summer Workshop Program for Academic Year 2025-2026 from April to June 2026, offering academic enrichment and skills-based sessions in music, dance, art, and swimming.
The music (voice and instruments) and dance (ballet and hip hop) workshops, held from April to May, were attended by 121 children. The program was conducted in partnership with the Center for Culture and the Arts (CCA) under the leadership of Ms. Normita Pablico. The program culminated in a recital at the Fr. Francis Gevers Hall, where participants showcased the knowledge and skills they had developed throughout the program.
The art workshop, attended by 23 children, concluded with a culminating event held at the SPDC on 21 May 2026. An art exhibit showcasing the children’s creative works and artistic talents was organized as part of the event. Parents, relatives, and friends were invited to view and appreciate the children’s artworks, celebrating their creativity and achievements. The art workshop was in partnership with the Asul Art and Play group of artists.
The swimming program was conducted from 30 May to 11 June at the SLU Aquatic Facility. The program was attended by 36 children, aged 4 to 18, and was designed to equip participants with essential water safety knowledge and basic swimming skills. Rev. Fr. Geraldo Costa, CICM, engaged four professional swimming coaches and one Peace Corps volunteer, Ms. Sydney Neuman, to serve as coaches and facilitators for the swimming program.
The Academic Enrichment Program was attended by 90 elementary and high school children who required tutorial support in Mathematics, Reading and Comprehension, Science, Physics, Chemistry, Algebra, Filipino, and other academic subjects. The program also provided specialized assistance to children enrolled in the Special Education (SPED) intervention program to address their individual learning needs.
Aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), 4 (Quality Education) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the Academic Enhancement Program aims to strengthen children’s academic competencies by reinforcing foundational knowledge and skills, and preparing them for the upcoming academic year through engaging and structured learning activities. (Article and Photos by SLU SPDC)
