MMLDC raises the bar in managing human resources

The proper management of an educational institution is vital since it serves as a setting where young minds are reared and where talents are nurtured. "Education for All" — UNESCO’s rallying cry for the education sector — is being implemented in the Philippines through the Department of Education. Because of this, teachers undergo training and seminars to keep them updated with the latest in their field. Not only that, the school management — principals, supervisors, consultants, etc. — likewise needs to evolve and be receptive to the latest concepts and strategies in terms of managing their learning institution.

The Meralco Management and Leadership Development Center (MMLDC) — a world-class training center and education foundation duly-accredited by the Philippine Council for NGO certification — offers a "School-based Management Development Program (SBMDP)" that targets school heads and education managers aimed at making them effectively addresses their needs and concerns.

"This program offers specialized training for education managers that aims to stimulate and sustain their desire to continuously improve their schools," said Vivien Arnobit, director of MMLDC’s Academic Services. The program, she added, intends to "equip beneficiaries with skills to effectively prepare, implement and evaluate their School Improvement Plans (SIP)."

MMLDC is an ideal place for these school heads to get their training since the center assures a relaxed atmosphere with world-class amenities. "We want them (the participants) to fully learn the various ways of managing their schools effectively that’s why MMLDC makes sure its amenities, rooms, conference rooms are well equipped for their activities," said Vivien.

In 2006, around 130 principals and teachers from 65 schools in Cavite were given training intervention by the MMLDC through the SBMDP. There were also training provided for teachers in partnership with Centex Foundation (around 94 teachers from Centex schools).

"The beneficiaries are the school head and the school itself. The participants have continuously reported countless benefits derived from the training program,"said Vivien. She cited the Division of Antipolo (with all its 56 schools) — the first set of beneficiaries of MMLDC in the education sector — as one of the most successful batch.

MMLDC’s programs have created a notable impact on how our principals manage the schools," said Dr. Aurea Sto. Domingo, division superintendent. "Our trainers from the Central office were impressed with the school improvement plans of the principals who underwent the MMLDC training. The workshop also improved the planning skills of the principals."

The immediate effect of the program is actually manifested, first and foremost, with the improvement in the perspective and behavior of participants. "Principals and school heads were now aware how they can become better managers. At the same time, they gained enough inspiration to move their schools from good to great," stressed Vivien.

For this year, MMLDC plans to offer the SBMDP to the rest of the schools of the Division of Cavite. The foundation also plans to re-launch an improved Lakbay Kalikasan for students and conduct a youth camp that will focus on social responsibility.

For more information, visit the website at www.mmldc.net or call 632-8111 or e-mail: [email protected]. MMLDC is located at Km. 26, Sumulong Highway, Antipolo City.