UCGAD reaches 2,207 students through gender sensitivity orientations
Promoting respect, inclusion, and a safe learning environment, the University Center for Gender and Development (UCGAD) reached 2,207 students through its Gender Sensitivity Orientation (GSO) series for Academic Year 2026–2027, held from September 8 to October 29, 2026
UCGAD staff member Ms. Marie O. Gamil reported that the orientations have so far covered nine colleges: the College of Human Ecology; College of Forestry and Environmental Science; College of Nursing; College of Business and Management; College of Veterinary Medicine; College of Humanities and Social Sciences; College of Engineering; College of Education; and College of Information Sciences and Computing.
The series will continue until January 2027, with the College of Agriculture scheduled to undergo orientation last.
The initiative aims to strengthen students’ understanding of Gender and Development (GAD), particularly on gender roles and stereotypes, socialization, gender-responsive language, and the rights and responsibilities of individuals in preventing gender-based discrimination, harassment, and other violations.
Addressing the participants, Dr. Haidee Helena H. Garcia, GAD Gender Focal Point System (GFPS) Executive Committee member, emphasized that the orientation provides an opportunity for students to learn, reflect, and become more aware of gender-related concerns.
She underscored that despite the enactment of various laws promoting gender equality and protecting individuals from discrimination and harassment, continuous education remains necessary to strengthen awareness and encourage respectful behavior. She also reminded participants that creating a safe and inclusive environment is a shared responsibility.
The sessions covered GAD awareness from global to local perspectives; gender roles, stereotypes, language, and socialization; and the rights, violations, responsibilities, and sanctions related to gender-based discrimination and harassment. Students were encouraged to translate these learnings into gender-responsive and respectful practices in their everyday interactions.
Reinforcing the importance of translating awareness into action, GAD Executive Committee member and Budget Officer Charlie A. Mundal urged students to challenge stereotypes, recognize individual rights, and help create spaces where everyone feels safe, valued, and accepted.
He also emphasized the distinction between equality and equity, explaining that while equality means providing equal rights and opportunities, equity recognizes that individuals may need different forms of support to achieve fairness.
“Gender sensitivity is not just about understanding differences; it is about recognizing our shared humanity,” Mundal stressed, encouraging students to become advocates of kindness, fairness, and respect.
Through the continuing GSO series, UCGAD reinforces the University’s commitment to building a gender-responsive and inclusive academic community where every student can learn, participate, and thrive without discrimination.
The initiative contributes to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 5: Gender Equality and 4: Quality Education by promoting gender awareness, equal opportunities, and a safe and inclusive learning environment. [Iyren Dalipe Neri]
