The College of Architecture, in collaboration with the Center for Gender and Development and NORFIL Foundation, Inc, an NGO dedicated in achieving an inclusive society, conducted an activity on inclusive education for persons with disabilities at Calungboyan Elementary School in Santa, Ilocos Sur on August 1, 2024.

Among the participants were children with disabilities and their parents, the school administration, teachers, and representatives from the local government.

The activity featured a lecture on inclusivity and basic gender orientation led by the Center for Gender and Development. This session highlighted the necessity of creating a learning environment where all students are treated equitably, regardless of gender, disability, race, social status, creed, or age.

Moreover, faculty from the College of Architecture presented Batas Pambansa Blg. 344, the legislation aimed at enhancing the mobility of disabled individuals by mandating the installation of necessary facilities in public buildings.

Following these lectures, an accessibility audit was conducted to evaluate the school’s facilities against the standards established by this law.

The findings from the accessibility audit were presented to the school administration and representatives from the local government, providing a foundation for future infrastructure projects and facility enhancements. NORFIL Foundation has pledged to fund the construction of a comfort room designed specifically for persons with disabilities, with architectural plans to be developed by the College of Architecture.

This initiative not only aims to improve physical accessibility but also seeks to cultivate a broader understanding of inclusivity within educational environments, aligning with national policies that advocate for equitable access to education for all students, including those with disabilities.

Article and photo by Atty. Katrynn Louise Eder.