Satellite Campuses Participate in Gender Sensitivity Training

Forty-two (42) faculty members from North Cluster-Satellite Campuses (Alubijid, Baungon, Medina, Talisayan, Talakag and Lantapan campus) of Bukidnon State University (BukSU) participated in a two-day Gender Sensitivity Training on October 24-25, 2024, at the BUKSU Hotel, Malaybalay, Bukidnon.

The training aimed to enhance self-awareness of gender concerns and issues affecting relationships at various levels.

Various topics were discussed, including the difference between sex and gender.

“Sex refers to the biological attributes that distinguish males from females, while gender encompasses the roles, behaviors, and identities that society associates with those sexes. Understanding this distinction is crucial for recognizing the complexities of gender dynamics,” said Ms. Shaunnell Mary J. Sayson, BukSU faculty and member of the Regional Pool of Gender and Development Resource Persons (RPGRP) of Region X.

The session also covered gender socialization, the process through which individuals learn and internalize the norms and expectations associated with their gender.

Sayson delivered the topics and facilitated engaging discussions among the participants. Faculty members from all campuses collaborated and share their insights.

Following the discussion, each group presented its outputs, fostering a rich exchange of understanding and perspectives on gender issues.

During the second day, the designated groups examined different scenarios to understand how gender bias manifested in various contexts, such as the workplace, education, or social interactions.

Sayson led a discussion on key issues related to Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC), Gender and Development, and Women’s Movement in the Philippines toward Gender and Development.   

During the session, Sayson emphasized the importance of understanding SOGIESC for the advocacy of inclusive policies that protect diverse identities.

“Incorporating gender perspectives into development programs not only addresses immediate concerns but promotes long-term societal change,” she said.

The training ended with GAD advocate’s pledge to actively promote gender equality and inclusivity in their work and communities. Participants committed to being allies, raising awareness about gender issues, and holding themselves and others accountable for creating safe spaces. (Angel Aldovino and Aisha Omaimah C. Mamarinta, BukSU-Alubijid Faculty Member)