President Ponce Emphasizes Values-Based Education in World Teachers’ Day Message
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) President Dr. Roy G. Ponce highlighted the important role of teachers in fighting corruption through values-based education during the university’s World Teachers’ Day culmination today, October 6, at the University Gym.
President Ponce called corruption the “number one issue” facing the country, pointing out problems in government programs and projects.
He said education is the best way to fight corruption and should go beyond just teaching facts. “The only way to correct this is through education that teaches good values: honesty, integrity, and love for the country,” he added.
He reminded teachers that their work is more than giving lessons. “We are called to shape values, influence mindsets, and produce DOrSU graduates who are not corrupt: graduates who can be trusted to lead with integrity and serve the nation sincerely,” he said.
To students, he stressed the importance of learning with a purpose. “When you graduate, I hope you will serve the country well. Education should lead to success with purpose,” he said.
He also said that learning is a shared responsibility between teachers and students. “Education is not ‘teacher versus student.’ It is not even ‘teacher plus student.’ It is a partnership built on trust, respect, and working together,” he said.
