The Deaf Studies Internship (DESTUIN) Program, in collaboration with the SDEAS Center for Deaf Esteem and Formation, provides students with opportunities to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical experience through service-learning engagements at partner institutions such as Bagong Ilog Elementary School. The program was conducted during the 2nd Term of Academic Year 2023–2024 (January to April 2024). As part of their preparation, DESTUIN students held meetings to organize and develop the necessary documents and materials for their planned activities.
A total of 20 DESTUIN students were deployed at Bagong Ilog Elementary School in Pasig City from February to March 2024. Through teaching Filipino Sign Language (FSL), bilingual literacy, and Deaf culture, the interns actively contributed to inclusive education initiatives. These experiences enhanced their pedagogical competence, leadership skills, and sense of social responsibility, thereby promoting sustainable and inclusive community development.
As part of their internship, the DESTUIN students taught Deaf pupils values education lessons covering topics such as bullying, the responsible use of social media, talking to strangers, academic reading, and developing good study habits. They also took charge of producing FSL videos, which involved sketching, illustrating, videography, and video editing.
Throughout their internship, the DESTUIN students mentored Deaf pupils in the classrooms. In addition, they organized a donation drive that ran from February 12 to March 7, 2024. To conclude their community engagement, the interns organized a fun and meaningful Culminating Activity on March 22, 2024, marking the final day of their service at the school.
On April 8, the Batch 120 Representatives formally passed on their duties and legacy to the Batch 121 Representatives, symbolizing the continued commitment to inclusive education and community development.
