Collaborative Triumph: A New Learning Center for the Sama Bajau Community

JCI Surigao North, under the leadership of 2025 LO President Atty. Krystel Grace L. Calderon – Buniel, successfully partnered with UN-Habitat, the City Government of Surigao, AECID, SDNSU, DICT Caraga, Light of Hope PH, Tahanan ni Juan, and other agencies for the turnover of the Community Learning and Youth Transformation Center to the Sama Bajau Community at Ecovillage Resettlement, Sitio Panubigon, Brgy. Lipata. The center was fully equipped with books, toys, educational materials, and essential learning equipment—thanks to generous donors. This initiative aims to provide quality learning resources and safe spaces for marginalized youth, promoting inclusive education and long-term community development.

The Challenge

The Sama Bajau Community had limited access to educational resources and safe learning safe spaces. Children lacked books, toys, and structured learning tools, making it difficult to support their development and school readiness. Many parents also had little to no formal education, which further hindered their ability to support their children’s learning at home.

The Solution

JCI Surigao North, led by 2025 LO President Atty. Krystel Grace L. Calderon – Buniel, partnered with UN-Habitat, the City Government of Surigao, AECID, SDNSU, DICT Caraga, Light of Hope PH, Tahanan ni Juan, and other agencies to establish the Community Learning and Youth Transformation Center. The Community Learning and Youth Transformation Center serves as an educational hub for the Sama Bajau community, offering access to age-appropriate books, instructional materials, and interactive play resources. It also promotes parental engagement in early childhood development, aiming to improve literacy, learning readiness, and community participation.

The Result

The center now serves as a dedicated space for learning and play, giving children access to tools that support their education and growth. Parents and community leaders have expressed gratitude, and the project has strengthened collaboration between local organizations, government agencies, and donors—laying the groundwork for future programs in inclusive education and youth development.