History's role in transformation
Dr Lambert "Ambeth" Ocampo
The chairman of the National Historical Institute (NHI) has underscored the role of history in transformation when he spoke at the University Centennial Celebration Lecture Forum of the West Visayas State University held August 24, 2007 at the WVSU Cultural Center.
Speaking to students, faculty, and staff, alumni and friends of the university, Chairman Lamberto "Ambeth" R. Ocampo underscored the importance of history as an agent of transformation. He challenged the audience to take lessons of the past and make it relevant today and in the future. "It is through history that we become a nation," according to Ocampo who was instrumental in granting WVSU its rightful place in the history of Philippine education by approving the results of the research tracing the humble beginnings of the University.
Dr. Ocampo holds a doctorate, master's and baccalaureate degree from the country's top public and private schools. He is at present Assistant Professor in the Department of History, Ateneo de Manila University, and Professional Lecturer in the Department of Filipino and Philippine Literature, University of the Philippines, Diliman.
As a public historian, Ocampo writes a widely read opinion page column for the Philippine Daily Inquirer entitled "Looking Back" and has published 14 books mostly compilation of his historical essays among them: Looking Back, Rizal Without the Overcoat, Aguinaldo's Breakfast, Bonifacio's Bolo, Mabini Ghost, and Luna's Mustache.
The lecture forum is part of the year long activities of the WVSU Centennial Celebration on the theme "WVSU -- A Century and Beyond: Providing Equitable and Transformative Learning Environment Through Service, Harmony, and Excellence".
(WVSU-CIAO)