The Astronomy class of the BSED Science major at the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture-College of Development Education (CBSUA-CDE) conducted a Telescope Skills Workshop and Sky Observation Activity on November 18-19, 2025, at the University of the Philippines-National Institute of Science and Mathematics Education Development (UP NISMED) in Diliman, Quezon City.
With access to UP NISMEDβs advanced facilities and expert mentors, CDE students deepened their understanding of key scientific concepts across Earth and Space Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. A major highlight of the workshop was the hands-on training in the handling, assembling, and disassembling of DepEd-purchased telescopesβequipment they will soon be using in their future classrooms.
Participants also had the rare opportunity to observe celestial bodies using one of the largest reflecting telescopes in the country, housed at the UP NISMED Observatory. Among the remarkable sights was Saturn, viewed in detail through the observatoryβs powerful equipment.
This immersive experience strengthened the studentsβ classroom readiness and supported ongoing efforts of EDCOM 2, DepEd, and CHED to develop highly competent science educators for the nation.
The initiative was made possible through the leadership of Dr. Rey-Mark G. Basagre, Physics Education Professor, and Dr. Kennedy A. Beltran, Biology Education Professor. CBSUA-CDE takes great pride in nurturing the talents of its learners and looks forward to the meaningful impact they will bring to schools across the country. | Report from Ashley Bares
