Exploring the senior high school Indigenous students’ challenges, realizations, and aspirations during the pandemic

This paper delves into the challenges, realizations, and academic aspirations of 52 Indigenous grades 11 and 12 students from Surigao del Norte Manobos, Agusan del Norte Higaonons, and Agusan del Sur Banwaons in the Philippines during the pandemic. Collected through key informant interviews, the data reveal educational challenges, including difficulty in understanding lessons and lack of family support, leading to Indigenous students' demotivation to learning. Financial issues exacerbated these challenges. The findings highlight the students' recognition of education as crucial for breaking the cycle of poverty. Their aspirations include surviving the crisis brought about by the pandemic, preserving cultural heritage, pursuing higher education, and contributing positively to their communities. Recommendations are provided to transform them into policies addressing the academic aspirations of Manobo, Higaonon, and Banwaon students, emphasizing cultural context and unique experiences.