Guimaras State University (GSU) recently organized a training under the SHARES Happiness program aimed at empowering rural communities through local governance, mentoring, and youth development, aligning with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education. The enhancement training, titled “Community Organizing, Capacity Building, and Mentoring,” took place on July 30, 2024, and focused on equipping 30 members from the Tinadtaran, Pina, Agsanayan, and San Roque Agrarian Reform Cooperative (TPAS-ARC) with essential business skills.

The day’s agenda included three key sessions led by distinguished experts. Dr. Rome Moralista initiated the training with a session on Basic Bookkeeping, introducing participants to fundamental accounting principles, transaction recording, and financial statement preparation. This foundational knowledge is vital for fostering a culture of accountability and transparency within cooperative businesses.

Dr. Arthur Soqueña then discussed Financial Management, covering budgeting, cash flow management, and strategies for financial risk mitigation. By empowering participants with these critical skills, the program enhances their ability to make informed financial decisions, thereby contributing to the sustainability and growth of their cooperative ventures.

The final session, led by Dr. Anelyn Janaban, focused on Human Resource Management, addressing recruitment, onboarding, and performance management best practices. Understanding these concepts is crucial for building effective teams and fostering a supportive work environment, which in turn promotes community engagement and collaboration.

Participants engaged in interactive discussions and hands-on exercises, finding the training highly relevant and practical. The emphasis on experiential learning aligns with GSU’s commitment to quality education, ensuring that participants not only acquire knowledge but also develop the competencies needed to apply it effectively. Positive feedback highlighted the program’s impact on participants’ understanding of business management, supporting the growth and sustainability of their cooperative operations.

Through initiatives like the SHARES Happiness program, GSU demonstrates its dedication to promoting quality education and empowering rural communities, paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future in line with the global goals for education.