Advancing a culture of inclusivity and gender equality, the College of Communication and Information Technology (CCIT) equipped its faculty and non-teaching staff with deeper awareness and practical competencies through a three-day Gender Sensitivity Training held from June 29 to July 1, 2026 at the Old Registrar’s Office.
Spearheaded by the Center for Gender and Development, the training equipped CCIT faculty members and non-teaching personnel with the knowledge, values, and practical tools necessary to champion gender equality and foster safe, respectful, and inclusive learning and working environments.
The three-day training served as a transformative platform for advancing gender awareness and inclusivity in the university. Through engaging discussions and interactive learning sessions, participants strengthened their understanding of gender equality, reinforced gender-responsive practices in the workplace, and gained deeper appreciation of the laws and policies that safeguard the rights, dignity, and equal opportunities of every individual.
The program officially commenced with inspirational messages from Dr. Rolando Navarro, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Erwin Cadorna, University President, who highlighted the University’s unwavering commitment in mainstreaming Gender and Development in instruction, research, extension, and governance. They emphasized that promoting an inclusive and equitable academic environment is a shared responsibility that empowers every member of the University community to become advocates of positive social transformation.
The training opened with a session by Ms. Renee Grace Tungpalan, who established a solid foundation for the three-day learning program through her lecture on “GAD Basic Concepts and Principles.” Guiding participants through the core tenets of gender and development, she unpacked essential gender concepts, roles, equality, and equity while stressing the critical role of mainstreaming gender perspectives into institutional policies, programs, and day-to-day practices. Her discussion set the tone for meaningful dialogue and reinforced the university’s commitment to promote an inclusive, gender-responsive academic community.
The second day featured two insightful sessions. In the morning, Ms. Sheila De Vera discussed “Gender Issues,” highlighting contemporary gender concerns, stereotypes, discrimination, and societal challenges that continue to affect individuals and communities. In the afternoon, Dr. Ma. Jesusa Unciano delivered an engaging lecture on “Gender and Development,” emphasizing the importance of gender mainstreaming and the role of educational institutions in advancing inclusive and sustainable development through responsive policies and programs.
The training culminated with a strong emphasis on the promotion of safe, respectful, and inclusive learning and working environments. Atty. Andi Nicole Lopena, Legal Assistant III of the University Legal Office, led a comprehensive lecture on the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act and the Safe Spaces Act, empowering faculty members and non-teaching personnel with a deeper understanding of their rights, obligations, and legal protections under existing legislation. The session highlighted the University’s commitment to prevent gender-based violence, strengthen institutional accountability, and cultivate a campus culture where dignity, respect, and inclusivity are upheld for every member of the academic community.
In the afternoon, participants showcased their learning and creativity through the presentation of workshop outputs, demonstrating their understanding of gender-responsive concepts and practical strategies in promoting equality within their respective units. The presentations reflected the participants’ commitment in translating knowledge into meaningful actions that supports the university’s gender and development initiatives.
The training concluded with words from Atty. Katrynn Louise Eder, Officer-in-Charge of the Center for Gender and Development, who encouraged participants to become champions of gender equality beyond the classroom and workplace. Atty. Eder reminded everyone that genuine change begins with awareness, respect, and collective action, inspiring participants to continue fostering a culture of inclusivity, empathy, and social responsibility.
The successful conduct of the three-day gender sensitivity training stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Center for Gender and Development and the College of Communication and Information Technology in promoting a culture of inclusivity and social responsibility within the university. More than an educational activity, the training empowered participants to become agents of change who recognize that gender equality is not merely an institutional goal but a collective responsibility essential in achieving sustainable development and academic excellence.
As UNP continues to strengthen its gender and development initiatives, programs such as this reaffirm the University’s vision of developing competent, compassionate, and socially responsible professionals committed in promoting an equitable society where every individual is valued, respected, and empowered.
Article and Photo by: Joel Fabillaran
