Zia Marie P. Mayormita | BSMT- II | GE 10 – DD
A Reflection on: “Whole Person Education: The Goals and the Challenges” – an interview with Dr. Ben S. Malayang III

Link: https://unitedboard.org/ben-s-malayang-iii-silliman-university/

I would first like to make mention of my new-found respect for Dr. Ben Malayang and his display of great eloquence in this interview of his. His passion for Christian-supported excellence and his higher vision for a better Silliman was truly radiating in his words, making the article a treat to read. I agree with his statements that what really makes Whole Person Education important is that it is able to extend the extent of one’s ability as a learner, as a servant-leader, as a Christian, and as a human being. This makes it a challenge to every organization and institution part of the United Board and ASEAN to strive for greater heights in order to produce students that are well-rounded, competent, professional, and invisionary — all while doing so in the image of God. He aims to achieve this by setting standards, like an accreditation system, to fully hit all points necessary to make their graduates “whole”. In terms of integrating this in Silliman University, he makes smart use of Silliman’s 5C’s — the classroom, court, culture, Church, and, community — so that Silllimanians are imbued with all the enriching aspects of Christian-centered-self-development.

In support, Dr. Malayang expressed that this vision of his would be no problem to the staff and professors of Silliman as most of the faculty in higher learning institutions in Asia are well equipped and highly competent in adapting and aiming towards further professional improvement while carrying with them our Asian heritage. This, to me, in-line with the previous statements, are the essence of Whole Person Education and is what makes this subject all worth-while.