BukSU strengthens gender mainstreaming with orientation on impact assessment

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) – University Gender Research and Resource Center (UGRRC) trained members of its Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS) on October 14, 2026 to evaluate how university policies and programs affect different gender groups.

The virtual orientation focused on applying Gender Impact Assessment (GIA) across BukSU’s core functions on instruction, research, extension, and production.

University President and GFPS Chair Dr. Joy M. Mirasol framed the assessment tool using the local Cebuano word giya, meaning guide.

“When we talk about gender, it often feels overwhelming,”Mirasol said. “G-I-A is our giya… It guides us in making decisions that are fair, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of our people.”

UGRRC Director Dr. Marichu B. Montecillo outlined the five stages of the GIA framework: defining purpose, checking gender relevance, analyzing through a gender lens, weighing impact, and implementing improvements.

According to her, integrating GIA into institutional planning helps university offices identify equity gaps, anticipate unintended consequences, and allocate resources more effectively.(With information from Dr. Marichu B. Montecillo, UGRC Director)