Brigada Eskwela, a nationwide initiative in the Philippines, was originally designed to foster a spirit of community and volunteerism. It aimed to bring together students, parents, and teachers to prepare schools for the upcoming academic year. However, recent trends suggest that this spirit of volunteerism is being overshadowed by a sense of obligation and fear.
The Shift from Voluntary to Mandatory
In many schools, participation in Brigada Eskwela has become a prerequisite for enrollment. Students are often left with no choice but to participate, fearing that their enrollment might be jeopardized if they do not join. This shift from voluntary participation to mandatory involvement has raised concerns about the true essence of volunteerism in Brigada Eskwela.
The Burden on Parents
Parents, too, are feeling the pressure. Those who are unable to participate due to work commitments often resort to paying others to take their place or giving money directly to the school. This not only defeats the purpose of community involvement but also places an additional financial burden on families.
The Impact on the Spirit of Volunteerism
The spirit of volunteerism thrives on the willingness of individuals to contribute their time and effort for the benefit of the community. When participation becomes forced or monetized, it loses its essence. The joy of contributing to one’s community is replaced with a sense of obligation and fear.
Conclusion
While the intention behind Brigada Eskwela is commendable, the implementation needs to be revisited. Schools should encourage voluntary participation and foster a genuine spirit of community involvement. After all, the success of Brigada Eskwela lies not in the number of participants, but in the spirit of volunteerism it instills in the hearts of students, parents, and teachers.
Let’s hope that the true spirit of Brigada Eskwela - volunteerism, community, and shared responsibility - can be revived and cherished once again. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about preparing the school for another academic year, but about building a stronger, more connected community.