The Davao Oriental State University โ Center for Gender and Development (DOrSU-CGAD) was honored with a prestigious Partnership Award by the Department of Education Schools Division of the City of Mati (DepEd Mati) in a ceremony held on December 16, 2024. This recognition highlights the universityโs significant contributions to promoting gender equality and empowering individuals within the basic education sector.
During the awarding ceremony, held at the Gregโs Hotel, City of Mati, Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Winnie E. Batoon, lauded DOrSU-CGAD for its unwavering commitment to gender-responsive programs and initiatives. The partnership has fostered a mutual collaboration aimed at advancing a safe and inclusive educational environment for all students, particularly those from marginalized groups.
Dr. Mary Fil M. Bauyot, DOrSUโs Director for Extension, received the plaque of recognition and expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and our partners in the community. We believe in the importance of gender equality and inclusivity in education, and we are committed to continuing our efforts to create a safe and equitable learning environment for all.”
The partnership between DepEd Mati and DOrSU-CGAD has resulted in notable initiatives, including workshops, seminars, and outreach programs focused on gender sensitivity and women empowerment. Since 2018, CGAD has been implementing research programs to evaluate gender mainstreaming among primary and secondary schools. This endeavor has led to the publication of at least two scientific papers and informed the policy direction of GAD implementation in the Division.
Through the initiatives of Dr. Jeralyn N. Hemillan (CGAD Director), Dr. Mary Fil M. Bauyot (GAD Focal Person), Mr. Jhonnel P. Villegas (Member of the GAD Speakersโ Bureau), and Dr. Helina Jean P. Dupa (GAD Focal Person), the Center has also launched the Gender and Development Learning Academy, which capacitated DepEd GAD focal persons and advocates in the conduct of gender sensitivity training in their respective institutions.
Other priorities of the partnership include mental health, adolescent protection and well-being, values orientation, responsible parenthood, gender research, and curricular integration.
As part of its ongoing commitment to gender and development, the Center plans to expand its programs in collaboration with the DepEd, aiming to reach more schools and communities throughout Davao Oriental. The university looks forward to building on this partnership to drive positive change and foster an inclusive and regenerative educational landscape.
Source: Gender Research and Resource Center Facebook Pageย