IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay (PIA) — In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering students, the Sibugay Technical Institute Inc. (STII) has partnered with the Philippine Information Agency 9 (PIA) to unveil the province’s inaugural GAD Corner.
This innovative space, designed as a café-style reading nook and adorned with Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, fosters community engagement and raises awareness of gender-related issues.
The establishment of the GAD Corner aligns with Republic Act No. 9710, also known as the Magna Carta of Women, which mandates the integration of Gender and Development (GAD) in educational institutions.
This initiative reflects STII’s commitment to implementing national policies that promote gender equality and empower women.
The GAD Corner at STII College serves not only as a reading area but also as a hub where students can explore and discuss topics related to gender equality. It features posters, flyers, and books curated to educate and inspire, complemented by comfortable seating and a television set for leisurely use.
Bella Chiong Javier, President of the Board of Trustees at STII, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “The GAD Corner is not just a space for learning but also a platform for students to voice their thoughts and experiences on gender issues. It’s designed to be inclusive, inviting everyone to participate in building a more equitable society.”
PIA Regional Head Noemi B. Edaga, the guest speaker at the launch, remarked,
The establishment of this GAD Corner at STII College is a powerful statement of commitment to addressing gender-related issues. It will serve as a critical space for raising awareness, providing support, and fostering dialogue about gender and LGBTQ+ issues.”
She added, “I encourage you all to actively engage with this space, voice your concerns, and work together to drive positive change.”
In addition to its educational components, the GAD Corner includes interactive elements such as a selfie booth and a freedom wall.
These features aim to actively engage students in promoting gender equality, providing opportunities to capture moments of empowerment and solidarity. Tag plates with empowering hashtags like #EmpoweringCommunities and #BabaeAko #STIIforGAD encourage social media interaction, extending the initiative’s impact beyond the school grounds.
To mark the official launch of the GAD Corner, STII also conducted an oath-taking ceremony for its newly elected GAD officers.
The event featured a memorandum of understanding signing between STII and PIA, solidifying partnership in advancing gender equality initiatives.
Furthermore, building on this momentum, the STII High School Department has recently established its own GAD Corner, reflecting the institution’s comprehensive commitment to fostering a gender-sensitive educational environment.
As STII leads the way with the province’s first GAD Corner, it sets a precedent for other educational institutions to follow, demonstrating the power of collaboration and innovation in promoting gender equality and empowerment. (EDT/JPA/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay)
