With the goal of providing a platform for discussion, reflection, and empowerment, the Federated Class Organization—College of Engineering (FCO-COE), in collaboration with the Gender and Development (GAD) Services Unit, successfully held the “Orientation of GAD Activities and Heart Stopper: Balancing Love and Learning” seminar at Teatro Ibabawnon on Friday, March 7, 2025.
With an emphasis on promoting inclusion, equality, and gender sensitivity within the engineering community, the activity sought to familiarize students and faculty with the University's GAD programs. In addition to learning how GAD initiatives fit into the national development goals, participants were enjoined to participate in interactive conversations and consider how they may support these worthwhile endeavors.
Lending their time and understanding as resource speakers, COE Faculty Member and former GAD Coordinator Dr. Maricel Apelado provided a lecture on gender equality, sex vs. gender, gender stereotypes, and gender equality in the classroom, while COE Alumna and former Faculty Member Engr. Ma. Rizzalyn Cabong gave a moving life testimony on “Good Success: Academics, Career, and Love,” which afforded the audience with real-life inspiration on how to triumph against the trials and tribulations of life, emphasizing how to balance love, relationships, education, and long-term life goals.
The said activity was made successful through the organization of the COE GAD Coordinator, Ms. Joyce Giba-Bebita, and FCO-COE Adviser, Mr. Mel Louie C. Suarez, who both highlighted the importance of inclusivity, equality, and gender sensitivity in building a more supportive academic and professional environment.
