The University of Santo Tomas’ (UST) College of Education is celebrating its centennial, highlighting its enduring role in training educators despite ongoing challenges in the profession.

Dean Pilar Romero said the college’s faculty serves as a positive role model for students, helping them navigate the complexities of teaching from the moment they consider the profession.

“I would encourage our young and dynamic teachers to tell these students that if you go into the College of Education, you will not only be in the classroom; there are a plethora of opportunities open for you,” Romero said.

The centennial celebration, themed “From Foundations to Futures: A Century of Excellence,” also looked back at the college’s history since its founding in 1926. Symon Lagao, assistant head for digitization at the UST Heritage Library, noted the college was established by Father Silvestre Sancho to meet the country’s need for more educators.

Lagao cited historical records showing that by 1927, the Philippines had over one million students but only about 25,000 teachers.

One of the college’s earliest challenges was the admission of women. According to Lagao, Pope Pius XI initially opposed the idea, citing concerns about co-education.

However, the university was granted permission to admit female students in January 1926 under strict conditions, including separate areas for male and female students and the requirement that a professor accompany them at all times.

Now in its 100th year, the college says it remains committed to shaping policies and teacher education across the country. In addition to its education programs, the college also includes students of Food Technology, Nutrition and Dietetics, and Library and Information Science.