NDMU Strengthens Inclusive Education Through Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) Curriculum Workshop for Educators

KORONADAL CITY — Reaffirming its commitment to equity, access, and social justice, Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) took concrete action to build fairer learning spaces through a hands-on curriculum workshop at the Alumni Center on September 4, 2026.

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Organized by the Gender and Human Development (GaHD) Office, the seminar-workshop, titled "Crafting a Syllabus Using the Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) Lens: Facilitating a Fair and Inclusive Learning Environment," gathered 30 program chairpersons and General Education faculty members across various colleges.

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Opening the activity, Administrative Vice President Atty. Rene M. Barrion emphasized that NDMU’s effort goes beyond mere policy compliance, aiming instead to cultivate truly inclusive academic environments.

Moving past theoretical discussion, participants audited their existing syllabi to identify accessibility gaps and apply gender-responsive strategies directly to their learning materials.

Leading the training was guest speaker Ms. Pacita Dechavez Fortin, RSW, MA, a seasoned Gender and Development specialist and educator from Miriam College, Loyola Heights, Quezon City, who shared practical techniques for inclusive curriculum development.

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Closing the event, Sr. Mary Ann B. Rhudy, OND, Coordinator of the Gender and Human Development Office, reminded faculty of the deeper purpose behind their course planning: "A syllabus is far more than a routine course outline. It is the very first invitation we extend to our students, signaling who belongs, whose voices are valued, and how safe they will be in our classrooms."

Through this initiative, NDMU strengthens its academic foundation ensuring that every program actively empowers all learners equally.