By: Earle Vann E. Ramos
Teacher III, TLE Dept.
MNCHS

They say that teachers are like candles. They consume themselves to light the way for others.

Having taught for nearly fifteen (15) years in the premiere school in the province of Masbate, I have come to realize that teachers should really find ways in order to ensure a more secured and life-ready learners for the future.

In the early months of 2023, I was designated as the Officer-In-Charge of the Technology and Livelihood Education Department, and this experience has opened my eyes to the immediate needs of the teachers, school, the community, and the learners, most especially.

Part of the perks of being a department OIC is the chance to be the night high school coordinator where one is tasked to oversee the daily (or nightly, for that matter) conduct of the learning processes given to night class learners.

Masbate National Comprehensive High School has been giving its best in order to address the academic needs and demands of the 21st century. On one of my duties as the night high coordinator however, I noticed that there can be additional ways to elevate the services given by the school through alternative means and activities.

It is a known fact that there are more challenges in learning at night and part of this is the insufficiency of light sources for the students. Furthermore, the increasing monthly expenses of the school in electricity consumption has become a pressing problem.

Luckily, modernization offers sustainable and reusable energy in order to be more earth-friendly while providing the necessary needs of people. Thus, the conceptualization, adoption, and implementation of Project ILAW (Installation of solar Lights Across MNCHS campus for safety and Wider visibility).

Installing solar lights across the school premises will provide adequate lighting especially during evening when there are night class students who attend to their classes from 5 o’clock in the afternoon until 9 o’clock in the evening. Such project will provide safety to students, teachers, and non-teaching staff of the school. Also, it will lessen the usage of electric light bulb that adds up to the monthly electric bill of the school. This way, the school will be able to save a part of its MOOE fund that can be utilized for more important needs.

As envisioned, this innovative project will bring forth the required and adequate lighting for night and day class learners of the school without having to compromise the school’s financial obligations.

Relatively, in an era marked by environmental consciousness and a growing urgency to address climate change, the importance of renewable energy, particularly solar power, cannot be overstated. This is especially true in schools, where sustainability practices not only serve as examples for the community but also contribute to cost savings and long-term environmental benefits.

Embracing solar power aligns educational institutions with a commitment to environmental stewardship. Solar energy is a clean and sustainable resource that helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels, mitigating the carbon footprint of schools and contributing to a healthier planet.

Installing solar panels provides unique educational opportunities for students. It allows schools to incorporate real-world examples of sustainable practices into their curriculum, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility among the next generation. Moreover, solar power systems offer a practical financial advantage for educational institutions. While the initial investment may seem significant, the long-term savings on energy costs can be substantial, freeing up resources for other essential needs within the school budget.

Georgetown University has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability through its solar initiatives. By installing solar panels on campus buildings, the university has not only reduced its carbon footprint but has also integrated sustainability into its educational programs. This approach aligns with Georgetown’s mission to be a leader in environmental responsibility.

Additionally, Harvard University’s embrace of solar power showcases the scalability of renewable energy in an academic setting. The university has invested in large-scale solar projects, such as the 1.1-megawatt rooftop solar installation on its science and engineering complex. Harvard’s commitment to renewable energy contributes not only to its sustainability goals but also serves as a model for other institutions.

In the Philippines, companies and schools that have adopted solar power contribute directly to the reduction of carbon emissions, playing a crucial role in the fight against climate change. This aligns with global efforts to transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. The integration of solar power into educational institutions sparks innovation in teaching and research. Students can explore diverse aspects of solar technology, energy efficiency, and environmental impact, preparing them for careers in the growing field of renewable energy.

Educational institutions serve as community leaders, and our adoption of solar power has a positive impact beyond campus boundaries. It sends a clear message to the community about the institution’s commitment to sustainability, inspiring others to follow suit and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Project ILAW goes beyond reducing energy costs; it exemplifies a commitment to environmental responsibility, provides educational opportunities especially for night high school students, and contributes to the global shift towards sustainable energy practices. As MNCHS continues to embrace solar power, it does not only reduce our ecological footprint but also empower the next generation with the knowledge and skills needed to build a more sustainable future.