Social responsibility has emerged over the last decade as a critical component of citizenship.  It is not just being responsible and respectful of others, community and the environment but understanding of the interdependence of human beings and environment, their role as agents of change and their accountability and impact to others.

Also, social responsibility has widened its focus and scope during this age of digital connection, unprecedented social and political change and at the time of the pandemic. How can the youth participate during this time? How can young people demonstrate good citizenship during this time of lockdown?

Why is social responsibility course relevant to young people?

The Philippines has a demographic dividend as young people below 23 years old comprise the total population. In the context of covid-19, our community is safe if we make young people safe. This means that the young people need to embrace their personal and social responsibility to themselves, family and community.

The ability of young people to identify and define social responsibility is important in defining who they are, where they fit in the social world.  (Berman, 1997). Therefore, the more they get to know themselves through interaction with communities through volunteering, participation in school and community activities the better they can understand their purpose, responsibility towards self, others and environment, their accountability and their connection to the wider community.

This module is designed to increase young people’s understanding and awareness of their role as citizens and consumers in a shared planet, including taking responsibility of choices; it also challenges their behaviour and thinking about how might they view social challenges, their role and how they can take part in responsibilities and find meaning in their contribution.

Young people will learn about the importance of

• Taking responsibility
• Cultural diversity
• Sensitivity
• Accountability
• Volunteerism
• Social skills
• Citizenship
• Interdependence
• Empathy
• Problem-solving
• Leadership
• Basic human rights of self and others
• Openness to new ideas, experiences, and people
• Appreciation of their critical role in social transformation.
• A better understanding of themselves
• Awareness of their thoughts and feelings