Extension Agenda for 2023-2026

With the mandate of the University of the Philippines to serve as a research university and lead in public service across various fields of expertise, the Department of Family Life and Child Development aims to promote research and extension programs that align with the College of Home Economics' commitment to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Department is dedicated to serving and empowering children, families, communities, and practitioners. It emphasizes teaching, research, and extension as integral components of the university's core mission. The Department strives to achieve these goals through the following objectives: 

1. To contribute to the production and dissemination of new and existing knowledge in the field

a. by utilizing the U.P. Child Development Center as a site for collaboration and knowledge co-creation with early childhood practitioners, institutions, and communities

b. by immersing with families in the communities to unearth and amplify indigenous ways and practices

2.  To strengthen the capability of Filipino families to nurture children and provide them with full support for their welfare and development

3.  To promote evidence-based practices in working with children and families through collaborations and engagements (with professional and academic, local and international, government and non-government organizations, and related initiatives) 

a. that are gender transformative and environmental, social and economically sustainable

b. that are context-specific and complement the work and knowledge of existing stakeholders

c. that highlight the value of investing in ECCD and enacting comprehensive and proactive policies for children and families 

4. To uplift the standards of programs and services for children and families (e.g. evaluation and accreditation)

5. To advocate for the professionalization of ECCD practitioners (e.g. training and capacity-building) 

6. To initiate the establishment of accessible, inclusive, and sustainable child- and family-friendly spaces (in the University, community, etc.)

New/Updated Research & Extension Areas