Mission Rooted in Marist Tradition: NDKC Extends Marist Mission to Sayaban Elementary School
By: Ronabel T. Tan
On September 8, 2026, Notre Dame of Kidapawan College (NDKC) conducted a community outreach program at Sayaban Elementary School as part of the Notre Dame Day celebration. The initiative was anchored in the enduring legacy of Saint Marcellin Champagnat, founder of the Marist Brothers, whose spirituality is rooted in the virtues exemplified by Mary—humility, gentleness, compassion, and maternal care. Inspired by these Marist values, NDKC faculty, staff, and students came together to share knowledge, resources, and meaningful experiences with the young learners of their adopted community.
The program commenced with an opening prayer led by Br. Jay Jay E. Escuadro, FMS, followed by a warm welcome message from Sayaban Elementary School Principal Mr. Gabriel A. Andi. Dr. Marilou S. Encabo, College Faculty President, then presented the rationale for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of extending NDKC’s educational mission beyond the campus and into the wider community.
A key component of the outreach was an informational talk on basic body and oral hygiene delivered by Lovela D. Laroscain, RN. The session provided pupils with practical knowledge on essential self-care and hygiene practices. Concurrently, the JPMA Club, under the supervision of Dr. Encabo, provided free haircut services to the pupils, addressing their immediate personal care needs.
Adding joy and camaraderie to the occasion, Political Science students facilitated lively parlor games that encouraged participation and interaction among the learners. Following the activities, NDKC personnel distributed hygiene kits and snacks as tangible expressions of care and solidarity. The program also featured a special intermission number by the pupils of Sayaban Elementary School, a thanksgiving message from Israel M. Serrano, Student SELGP President, and a certificate presentation led by Sir Rico E. Nonles, Director for Student Affairs.
The meaningful day concluded with a closing message from Maritel G. Oniola, RL, followed by a closing prayer led by Reese Xyzae F. Ulan. The program culminated in the community singing of “Notre Dame, Our Mother,” symbolizing the shared spirit of faith, service, and solidarity that united NDKC and Sayaban Elementary School.
The outreach exemplified NDKC’s commitment to forming compassionate and socially responsible individuals while living out the Marist mission of service and care for others. Through initiatives such as this, NDKC continues to embody the spirit of Saint Marcellin Champagnat by bringing hope, compassion, and meaningful service to communities, particularly to children and young people.
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