The University of Baguio through its Research Innovation Extension and Community Outreach (RIECO) has embarked on a mission to address the needs of communities through comprehensive needs assessments. On June 3, 2024, the researchers led by the RIECO staff and Faculty Members from STELA and SIT conducted a needs assessment in Barangay Pinsao Proper, which has already shown significant impact on the community.

The needs assessment conducted by Researchers, represents a crucial step in understanding the challenges and opportunities faced by the community. By engaging with local stakeholders, the researchers were able to gather valuable insights into the specific needs of the barangay, in terms of livelihood, literacy, health, infrastructure, and peace and order.

Researchers, including Ms. Michelle Chomayag, Ms. Sittie Darimbang, Ms. Marianne Basoyang, Ms. Shayana Elipane, and Ms. Junamil Zamora, met with officials from Barangay Pinsao Proper to observe, listen, and take note of the difficulties faced by the community. The collected data will serve as a roadmap for future interventions and inform the design of programs tailored to meet the needs of the target respondents and address the community’s most pressing issues.

This meaningful collaboration ensures that UB’s outreach and extension programs are responsive to the unique needs of the community, ultimately leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes. The efforts are aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 4, 5, 10, and 17, which emphasize the importance of education, gender equality, reduced inequalities, and partnerships for sustainable development. By addressing the needs of the community, UB contributes to the attainment of these SDGs, ultimately fostering a more equitable and sustainable society.

Written by Diane Labay and Photographed by Kagawad Marchan of Pinsao Proper