In solidarity with the national observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), Mountain Province State University (MPSU), through its Gender and Development (GAD) Office, conducted a โKapihan at MPSUโ activity on December 2โ3, 2024, held at the MPSU 3rd Floor Lobby.
The initiative aimed to create a safe, supportive, and confidential environment where employees, students, and members of the university community could openly discuss their concerns related to gender issues, violence against women, and personal well-being. The Kapihan provided not only a space for open dialogue but also an atmosphere of inclusion, healing, and empowerment.
Throughout the two days, the Gender and Development Unit and the Happiness Center Unit actively engaged with attendees, creating opportunities to subtly introduce conversations that promoted gender sensitivity, mutual respect, and the value of maintaining safe spaces within the university. Although discussions ranged from workplace concerns to academic matters, the environment remained consistently warm and supportive. This atmosphere fostered a sense of empowerment and trust among participants, reinforcing the principles of a VAWC-free community and highlighting the importance of open, compassionate communication in preventing violence and discrimination.
The Kapihan also subtly encouraged participants to become more mindful of their roles in promoting gender equality. Informal exchanges allowed GAD advocates to highlight the importance of recognizing safe spaces within the university and understanding how these contribute to preventing violence and discrimination. Participants were also reminded that MPSU offers support mechanisms that individuals can access should they experience or witness VAWC-related concerns. This quiet form of awareness-building allowed the essence of the campaign to be felt without requiring explicit conversations on sensitive topics.
At the close of the two-day activity, โKapihan at MPSUโ stood as a gentle yet meaningful initiative that supported the universityโs commitment to the nationwide movement to end VAW. Through simple conversations and shared spaces, MPSU reaffirmed its role in fostering a campus environment where safety, respect, and empowerment are upheld for all.
