A Culinary Journey: VP Sara Duterte’s Visit to Setapak Vocational College
During her recent visit to Setapak Vocational College in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Vice President and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sara Duterte had the opportunity to explore their state-of-the-art cooking laboratory. This facility is known as the birthplace of some of the country’s renowned chefs.
The Facilities: A Comparative Look
Setapak Vocational College boasts a cutting-edge cooking laboratory. The facilities at the college include a variety of programs, such as Diploma in Automotive Technology, Diploma in Construction Technology, Diploma in Electrical Technology, and more. The college’s infrastructure significantly contributes to the students’ culinary excellence.
On the other hand, the facilities in Philippine public schools vary. The Department of Education in the Philippines is primarily responsible for formulating and enforcing policies, standards, and guidelines for providing appropriate educational facilities3. However, a study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies revealed serious infrastructure gaps in the Philippine basic education sector.
The Purpose of the Visit
VP Sara’s visit to Setapak Vocational College was not just an observational tour. It was an opportunity for her to engage with the students, understand the process behind creating delicious meals, and gain insights into the students’ passion and commitment to their craft. Her visit was part of her agenda as president of the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education (SEAMEO), where she underscored the need to push for “flagship projects” for teachers and learners.
A Vibrant Experience
Accompanied by Elize, a participant in the ‘You Can Be VP’ program, VP Sara’s tour of the cooking laboratory was a vibrant and colorful experience. The visit highlighted the richness of the cultural exchange and left both of them delighted.
In conclusion, VP Sara’s visit to Setapak Vocational College was a meaningful journey into the world of culinary arts. It provided her with valuable insights into the dedication, passion, and commitment of the students, and the significant role of state-of-the-art facilities in fostering culinary talents.