Integrating Gender Equality and Social Inclusion into Curriculum: A Faculty Orientation at CvSU Naic

A Gender-Responsive Curriculum and Instruction Orientation/Reorientation with GEDSI Integration | On February 25, 2025, the Office of the Director for Curriculum and Instruction (ODCI), in collaboration with the Campus’ Gender and Development (GAD) Unit, organized the event titled “A Gender-Responsive Curriculum and Instruction Orientation/Reorientation with GEDSI Integration.” The activity took place at the Audio-Visual Room, AquaBEST Building, at Cavite State University Naic, and was attended by both part-time and full-time faculty members.
The primary objective of the event was to raise awareness among faculty members about university academic policies, processes, and procedures. Additionally, the event aimed to inform participants about Laboratory Science High School (LSHS) and Library Services, orient them on the University Academic Calendar for the 2nd Semester of the Academic Year 2024-2025, and remind them of the current retention policy for various undergraduate programs as stated in the BOR Resolution No. 38, s. 2024. Furthermore, the event sought to orient faculty members on the concept of Complete Staff Work in relation to the CvSU Quality Management System (QMS), reorient them on the use of E-Class records, and educate them on integrating Gender and Development (GAD) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) into the course syllabus. A key focus of the event was to educate faculty members on Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) in education to foster a more inclusive and equitable academic environment.
The program began with opening remarks from Prof. Armina B. Pugay, Campus Administrator, followed by a discussion on the rationale of the activity and ODCI services led by Dr. Jesus Paolo B. Cullado, Director for Curriculum and Instruction. This session highlighted the importance of curriculum and instruction reforms to promote gender equality and inclusivity. Mr. Marion Rodrigo D. Mariñas III, LSHS Principal, provided an overview of Laboratory Science High School operations, while Ms. Rien Rose V. Salvador, Campus Librarian, elaborated on the library services available to faculty and students.
Mr. Nasser Lee G. Apolona, Campus Registrar, presented the Academic Calendar for the Second Semester of AY 2024-2025, along with updates on university academic policies, processes, and procedures. This was followed by a discussion on program admission and retention policies led by Department Chairpersons from various departments, including FASD, ITD, MD, and TED. Mr. Rodolfo V. Bagay Jr., ASD Chairperson, explained the concept of Complete Staff Work, emphasizing its relevance to CvSU’s Quality Management Systems (QMS).
In addition, Dr. Jesus Paolo B. Cullado discussed the procedures, forms, and terms of reference related to CvSU QMS, highlighting the importance of maintaining high standards of academic and administrative operations. Mr. Marc Luigi G. Timola, MIS Officer, provided an orientation on the Faculty and Student Portal, followed by a presentation on the Online Campus Calendar by Mr. Henry R. Balanza, Instructor from ITD. Dr. Ernesto A. Gutierrez Jr., Associate Professor from TED, discussed grade distribution and the E-Class record system, emphasizing efficient and accurate grading practices.
A significant portion of the event was dedicated to integrating sustainable and inclusive practices in teaching. Ms. Quennie M. Bilugan, FASD Chairperson, presented on integrating UN SDGs into course syllabi, highlighting the importance of educating students on global challenges. Ms. Elizabeth E. Bravo, GAD Unit Head, discussed the integration of GAD in course syllabi, focusing on promoting gender equality and sensitivity in academic content. Mr. Ariel Rivera, Head of Collective Mind Philippine, Inc., delivered a comprehensive lecture on GEDSI in Education, emphasizing the need for an inclusive academic environment that respects and values diversity.
One of the event’s key highlights was educating faculty members on effectively incorporating UN SDGs into their course syllabi and crafting them to be GADable (Gender and Development responsive). This approach aims to make academic content more relevant to contemporary global issues while promoting gender sensitivity. The event also emphasized the significance of creating an inclusive academic space within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). This involves actively promoting equity, diversity, and accessibility to ensure that all individuals—regardless of gender, race, socioeconomic status, disability, or other identities—are valued, respected, and supported (Ahmed et al., 2022).
Overall, the Gender-Responsive Curriculum and Instruction Orientation/Reorientation with GEDSI Integration successfully equipped CvSU Naic faculty with the necessary knowledge and tools to foster academic inclusivity within their community. By integrating GAD, UN SDGs, and GEDSI into their teaching practices, faculty members are better prepared to create a more gender-responsive and socially inclusive learning environment. This initiative demonstrates CvSU Naic’s commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and social inclusion in education, paving the way for a more inclusive academic future.