Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI) proudly celebrates another academic milestone as two of its researchers earned international recognition with the acceptance of their study in the Asian Journal of Education and Social Studies, a peer-reviewed and internationally indexed journal under SD Publisher Group.

The research, titled “Reading Between the Lines: A Phenomenological Study on the Lived Experiences of Grade 7 Students with Functional Illiteracy in the Context of Academic Literacy Transition”, was authored by Lowel D. Pasinag, LPT, MMEM, and Charlene Joy Saligumba, LPT, of the HCCCI Basic Education Department. Their work sheds light on the lived realities of Grade 7 students struggling with functional literacy, highlighting their coping mechanisms and adaptive strategies during the crucial stage of academic literacy transition. The study will appear in the journal’s upcoming issue and is accessible through its official DOI: https://doi.org/10.9734/ajess/2025/v51i92465

In its acceptance letter dated September 8, 2025, the journal commended the manuscript for successfully passing a rigorous peer review and editorial process. With this, the study is set for international publication, marking a significant contribution to global scholarship in education and social sciences. Dr. M. B. Mondal, Chief Managing Editor of the journal, affirmed the research’s relevance in advancing discussions on literacy, pedagogy, and learner development.

This achievement reflects HCCCI’s continuing commitment to fostering a strong culture of research and innovation. By addressing critical educational challenges such as functional illiteracy, the institution not only empowers its faculty and researchers but also contributes to knowledge that can inform inclusive education policies and effective teaching practices. In doing so, the study directly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by advancing efforts to ensure inclusive and equitable learning opportunities for all; SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by advocating for learners who are often marginalized in academic systems; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by strengthening global collaboration in education research.

The forthcoming publication stands as a source of pride for Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc., underscoring its dedication to academic excellence and its role in producing research that not only resonates locally but also contributes meaningfully to the international academic community.