NSTP in UPM CAS: Problems and Accomplishments (A Study on the NSTP and Its Precursor the ROTC and their Implications on the Students of UP Manila CAS)

Abstract

Being a citizen of a country requires duties and responsibilities to serve and protect his country and his people. In so doing, that one is also protecting his/her loved ones and his/her self aside from contributing for their development and welfare. The National Service Training Program and its precursor, the Reserve Officers Training Corps, were mandated to train the youth into socially responsible individuals aware of their capability and responsibility to help in nation building and national security. Thus the NSTP, upon being signed into law in 2002, was implemented in the university having three components-Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS), Literacy Training Service (LTS), and the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC). The NSTP was implemented in the university at a time when no one is prepared for the changes the law entails. The change not only affected the ROTC and its established programs but the university administration, the colleges, the faculty, and the students. The NSTP was not implemented in UP Manila without problems. Problems plaguing the program are also the same problems that affected its precursor, the ROTC - logistics, personnel, and student motivation to participate in the activities. As of the moment, the program seems to enjoy a positive influence on their students towards service and volunteerism. However there are certain areas of the NSTP that should be addressed and improved for it to better benefit the students and the community.