Written by Joan J. Baclay
CATBALOGAN CITY – The Samar State University (SSU) Gender and Development (GAD) Unit, now known as SAGWAN (SSU’s Advocacy on Gender and Women Advancement for National Development), under the Office of the University President, inaugurated a transformative two-day seminar dubbed as SAGWAN Kick-Off Extravaganza held at the SSU 3rd Floor Convention Center on January 15 (24).
Aimed to fortify gender mainstreaming in the University, SAGWAN sets sail with a resounding participation from the SSU’s GAD advocates a.k.a GAD Focal Point System (GFPS).
Graced by the Philippine Normal University (PNU) experts as Resource Speakers, President Dr. Bert J. Tuga and Global Citizenship Education Cooperation Centre – Philippines Director/Center for Transformative Education Concurrent Head Dr. Rowena R. Hibanada discussed topics on Gender Mainstreaming in Academics and University Processes and in Research and Extension Services.
PNU is largely known as champion of Gender Development in the Philippines as they streamline GAD in their various plans and programs. Also their top ranking in the THE Impact Rankings, specifically on SGD 5 (Gender Equality) manifests their excellence in gender mainstreaming.
During the launch, SSU President, Dr. Marilyn D. Cardoso stated the University’s commitment to ensure inclusivity through various GAD activities.
“We capitalize on the idea that ‘nobody is left behind’. That is the very reason we have provisions for mothers, the elderly, those with disabilities, and even the LGBTQ + members of our community,” said Dr. Cardoso.
With SAGWAN in place headed by its Director Charmaine R. Quiña, gender and development will surely be strengthened in the University as the Office paddles forward through its comprehensive framework, encompassing five core advocacies: SAGWAN Aral, SAGWAN Saliksik-Likha, SAGWAN Puso at Serbisyo, SAGWAN Kalikasan at Proteksyon Kalamidad, and SAGWAN Buhay at Balik-Tanaw.