CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines—The Samar State University’s Advocacy on Gender and Women Advancement for National Development (SAGWAN) kicked off its three-part program on integrating Gender Sensitivity Training, GAD Laws and Policies, and Human Rights into the NSTP Curriculum on January 2026 among all first-year students undertaking the National Service Training Program (NSTP). The program is anchored on the theme “Building Inclusive Communities through Gender Sensitivity and Human Rights Education,” that seeks to emphasize NSTP’s role in shaping students into gender-aware and socially responsible individuals.
The opening session was launched last January 11 (26), and focused on Gender Sensitivity Training that highlighted the importance of awareness, respect, and inclusivity in community engagement and civic service. The session was facilitated by SAGWAN core personnel, including Asst. Prof. Charmaine R. Quina, SAGWAN Director, Asst. Prof. Mary Jane B. Cinco, SAGWAN Faculty Extensionist, and Mr. Jasper D. Alegro, SAGWAN Faculty Researcher. All three resource persons shared key insights on fundamental gender concepts, common misconceptions, and the importance of gender-sensitive practices in education and public service.
The second session was conducted on January 25, 2026 and covered Language and Gender Sensitivity, featuring the importance of gender fair language, challenging gender-biased language, and exploring gender fair inclusive language (GFIL). This recent session was led by Ms. Nelinda Tan, CIT GAD Coordinator, Ms. Hanna Joyce Macawili, and Ms. Shiena Oste-Gruta, COED GAD Coordinator.
The third and final session was administered on February 1, 2026 focusing on topic, Development of GAD IEC Materials. It was facilitated by Assoc. Prof. Nathalie Ann Acosta, OVPAA GAD Coordinator, Ms. Joan Baclay, University Publications GAD Coordinator, and Ms. Ella Pacana, CAS faculty member.
Through this initiative, SSU continues to promote inclusive and gender-fair education inside the campus, ensuring that students are equipped not only with knowledge but also with the sensitivity and awareness needed to build inclusive communities.