In Summer 2002, SAIDI School of OD revisited SAIDI`s commitment to teachers` continuing education. Call it serendipity! But the following factors brought about the 2002 SAIDI Summer Teacher Institute.

First, there was the return of Jose Maria B. Legaspi from his overseas study at Teacher`s College of Columbia University, New York City, USA. SAIDI endorsed his application for a scholarship grant with FAPE for graduate study. Having successfully completed his master`s degree in Instructional Technology, Jomar offered his services to be involved in an undertaking that will improve the knowledge competencies and skills of teachers in integrating technology in their classroom work.

Second, the Dean, Dr. Rosalina Fuentes, just like many colleagues, has been feeling the need to be more actively involved in the continuing education of our teachers. The resounding suggestion: It was time to pay more attention to the other graduate program of the School of OD-- the Master of Arts in Instructional Development and Technology . This is a program tailor-made for teachers who will become teacher-leaders or teacher agents for change.

Fourth, there were responses from generous individuals in the call for logistical and financial support. They gave without counting the cost; they gave from the heart, in response to a worthy cause, "Quality teachers for quality education."

And lastly, there were "takers". Interested applicants from different parts of the country sent in their inquiries and applications. They are young and proud to be teachers. The offer given to them was attractive and challenging: work hard and you can earn an MA in Instructional Development and Technology in a year`s time. But they could still have fun.

All these happened to start off this program. Serendipity? Perhaps. Divine Providence? More like it.