In an inspiring demonstration of adolescent leadership, students and teachers from Ozamiz City joined forces to co-create digital and print Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials addressing critical issues including mental health, adolescent sexual and reproductive health, and disaster preparedness.
The two-day workshop was held on February 25-26, 2026, at Bethany Gardens Resort in Ozamiz City. The event brought together young learners and their mentors in a collaborative effort to produce educational materials that speak directly to the needs and experiences of Filipino youth.
Empowering Youth Through Participatory Learning
Rather than simply receiving information, the students took an active role in designing and developing IEC materials that resonate with their peers. This participatory approach ensures that the messages are culturally relevant, age-appropriate, and impactful — crafted by the very audience they aim to serve.
The workshop covered three vital areas:
- Mental Health: Students created materials addressing anxiety, depression, stress management, and the importance of seeking help — topics that carry significant stigma in many Filipino communities.
- Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH): Age-appropriate educational content designed to inform young people about their health and well-being.
- Disaster Preparedness: Given the Philippines vulnerability to natural disasters, the materials equip students with knowledge on emergency response and community resilience.
A Model for Youth-Led Health Education
The initiative represents a growing trend in the Philippines toward youth-led health education. By empowering students to become creators of knowledge rather than passive recipients, the workshop fosters leadership skills, critical thinking, and a sense of ownership over community well-being.
The involvement of teachers as co-facilitators — rather than sole authorities — created a dynamic learning environment where students felt confident to express their ideas and contribute meaningfully to the final outputs.
Ozamiz City Commitment to Education and Health
This workshop reflects Ozamiz City broader commitment to holistic education that goes beyond academics. By addressing mental health and disaster preparedness alongside traditional subjects, the city is investing in the overall well-being of its younger generation.
The IEC materials produced during the workshop are expected to be distributed across schools in the Division of Ozamiz City, extending the reach and impact of the students work throughout the community.
Initiatives like this demonstrate that when given the opportunity, young people in Ozamiz City can lead meaningful change and contribute to building a healthier, more resilient community.
Related: Ozamiz City Education News | Community Stories from Misamis Occidental