by: Maryjyl B. Arizala, BMS II

The Brigada Eskwela kick-off activity participated by Ms. Maryjyl B. Arizala, held on July 22, 2024 at Calaitan Elementary School in Barangay Simbalan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte marked the official start of the National Schools Maintenance Week with enthusiastic participation from a diverse group of stakeholders. Attende es included representatives from the Department of Education (DepEd), other National Government Agencies (NGAs), local government officials, school administrators, private entities, teachers, parents, students, and community volunteers. Central to the success of this initiative is the generous donation of school supplies, repair and cleaning materials, which plays a pivotal role in preparing schools for the new academic year. 

In an effort to enhance local governance and foster inclusive development, the Department of Budget and Management RO XIII, in coordination with the Caraga Budget Administrator Group, Inc. (CBAG), conducted a comprehensive capacity-building program tagged as "Navigating Leadership Excellence through Responsive and Inclusive Local Development Plans and Budgets." This initiative, targeting the newly-elected Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials, underscored the importance of strategic planning and inclusive budgeting in achieving sustainable community development. The simultaneous training-workshop with back to back batches from the different barangays in Caraga was held in the months of February, March and April 2024 at Grand Palace Hotel and Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, Butuan City.

The event commenced with a ceremonial program featuring speeches from key figures, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and collaboration in preparing schools for the ne w academic year. Following the opening remarks, participants engaged in a range of activities, including the distribution of cleaning materials, the signing of the Pledge of Commitment and the organization of volunteer teams for various maintenance tasks. .

The high turnout and active involvement demonstrated a strong communal commitment to improving the learning environment for students. The successful kick-off set a positive tone for the ongoing efforts throughout Brigada Eskwela, reflecting the collective dedication to enhancing educational facilities and fostering a supportive school community.