Promoting a more inclusive, respectful, and gender-responsive learning environment, the University Extension Office (UEO) conducted EMPOWERED: Capacity building on gender-fair education for teaching and non-teaching personnel and understanding gender sensitivity in school on October 24, 2026, at Pudoc Elementary School in San Vicente, Ilocos Sur.
The activity equipped teaching and non-teaching personnel with essential knowledge and practical strategies to promote gender sensitivity, challenge gender stereotypes, adopt gender-fair communication, and prevent gender-based discrimination within the school community. It also sought to cultivate a culture of respect, inclusivity, and equality by encouraging school personnel to uphold every individual’s dignity and ensure fair and equal opportunities in their interactions with learners, colleagues, and other stakeholders.
The capacity-building activity featured Dr. Victoria Arce, a trainer and member of the National Gender and Development (GAD) Resource Pool, as the resource person. Drawing on her expertise, she guided participants in deepening their awareness and understanding of gender-fair education and the practical application of gender sensitivity in the school setting.
Joining the activity were Mr. Ferdinand Ruyan, school principal, and the teaching and non-teaching personnel of Pudoc Elementary School. Their participation reflected the importance of involving the entire school workforce in advancing gender-responsive practices, respecting diversity, and preventing discrimination within the educational community.
Facilitating the initiative were Dr. Randall Rabacal, UEO Coordinator for Research Dissemination and Advocacy Services, and Prof. May Evelia Ruadap, UEO Coordinator for Skills and Livelihood Training. Through the initiative, the University Extension Office continued to extend its capacity-building efforts to educational institutions, addressing relevant social and educational concerns through knowledge sharing and community engagement.
Through EMPOWERED, the University Extension Office reinforced the role of gender-fair education in cultivating a school environment where every learner and personnel member is valued, respected, and treated equitably. By promoting gender sensitivity and inclusive practices, the initiative seeks to help establish a safer, fairer, and more welcoming learning environment at Pudoc Elementary School, where diversity is embraced and equal opportunities are upheld.
