In a time marked by social unpredictability and heightened personal risks, self-defense is no longer just a physical response—it has evolved into a crucial life skill that blends awareness, preparedness, and presence of mind. For senior high school students standing at the threshold of adulthood, the ability to recognize threats and respond appropriately is fundamental to personal safety. However, possessing basic knowledge is not the same as having the skills to apply it. According to Akbari and Sahibsaza (2020) many students may be aware of potential dangers, yet they often struggle with hesitation, lack of confidence, or limited physical readiness when placed in real-world scenarios.
At Bataan National High School, the urgency to evaluate and strengthen self-defense awareness among senior high school learners has become increasingly apparent. While topics related to safety are occasionally included in Health or MAPEH subjects, the instruction is often theoretical and lacks practical engagement. Students need more than information; they need immersive experiences, expert-led training, and opportunities to practice what they learn. Follo (2023) highlighted on her study that female students, in particular, have expressed heightened concerns regarding personal safety, yet many report limited access to structured self-defense education. A more inclusive and proactive approach should involve integrating self-defense training into the regular curriculum, offering regular seminars, and fostering a culture where safety is discussed openly and addressed through action.
Assessing students’ self-defense competencies is about more than preparing them to react physically—it is about instilling a mindset of vigilance, resilience, and autonomy. It empowers learners to navigate the world with greater confidence, knowing they have both the knowledge and ability to protect themselves when necessary. Schools must embrace their role in equipping students with these life skills, making self-defense education a priority rather than an afterthought. In doing so, we ensure that learners are not only intellectually prepared but also physically and emotionally ready to face the challenges of an increasingly complex world.
References:
Akbari and Sahibsaza (2020). Students’ Self-Confidence and Its Impacts on Their Learning Process. American International Journal of Social Science Research; Vol. 5, No. 1; 2020. Retrieved from: https://www.apa.org/ed/schools/primer/self-defense
Follo, G. (2023). The Importance of Reflexivity in Program Development: A Case Study Involving Teaching Self-Defense to Middle School Girls in PE Class. Violence Against Women, 30(1), 275-296. https://doi.org/10.1177/10778012231205590 (Original work published 2024)
