BSN 4G-C integrates service learning and sustainability in book donation drive for Pongayan Elementary School
February 19, 2026
Community engagement in nursing education extends beyond bedside care. Level 4 students from the University of the Cordilleras College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences conducted a literacy focused outreach initiative at Pongayan Elementary School as part of their Community Health Nursing clinical duty.
Led by BSN 4G-C together with their clinical instructor Ms. Princess Ngipol, the students formally handed over learning materials intended to support learners from Kindergarten to Grade 6. The books were officially received by Mr. Edwin L. Baterzal, Teacher In Charge of Pongayan Elementary School. The activity aimed to strengthen reading habits, assist teachers in classroom instruction, and provide additional educational resources for the pupils.
A total of 172 books were donated, including 34 workbooks generously provided through the UC Library. The materials were sorted per grade level to ensure developmental appropriateness and usability inside the classroom.
Distribution of books:
Kindergarten – 14
General Reading Materials – 24
Grade 1 – 16
Grade 2 – 24
Grade 3 – 19
Grade 4 – 12
Grade 5 – 19
Grade 6 – 44
Total: 172 books including 34 workbooks from the UC Library.
The outreach highlights the role of nurses not only as healthcare providers but also as educators and community partners. Literacy is recognized as an important social determinant of health because it affects understanding of health information, preventive practices, and decision making. By supporting early reading skills, the students contributed to building a healthier and more informed community.
The initiative also strengthened collaboration between the university and the local school community. Through coordination with the UC Library and Pongayan Elementary School, the activity demonstrated how academic resources can be shared to support community development and sustainable partnerships.
Sustainable Development Goals Alignment
| SDG | Indicator | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 4 – Quality Education | 4.6.1 Proportion of children and youth achieving at least a minimum proficiency level in reading and mathematics | Provision of age appropriate books and workbooks to support literacy development |
| SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals | 17.17.1 Resources mobilized for multi stakeholder partnerships | Collaboration among UC CONAHS, the UC Library, and Pongayan Elementary School to mobilize educational materials |
Through initiatives such as this, UC CONAHS continues to demonstrate that nursing education includes community empowerment, service learning, and partnership building beyond the clinical setting.
