ISUFST, DLSU Start Workshop for SDG Goals

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The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), in partnership with De La Salle University’s (DLSU) J. Robredo Institute of Governance, launched the workshop “Shaping Inclusive Futures: An Action Plan for ISUFST’s SDG Policy Center” on Dec. 20 at Damires Hills Tierra Verde Leisure Farm in Janiuay, Iloilo.

The event, which ran through Dec. 28, 2024, focuses on localizing Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which aims to promote gender equality and empower women and children.

Participants from ISUFST and DLSU are collaborating to craft an inclusive, evidence-based framework addressing gender and child-focused issues. This workshop serves as a preparatory step for a Policy Summit in March 2025 and the establishment of a policy center aimed at fostering sustainable and equitable development at the local level.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., CESO VI, highlighted the significance of the workshop for vulnerable sectors.

“This event reflects our collective commitment to driving inclusive development and empowering women and children through localized and sustainable policies,” he said.

The opening presentation by Dr. Francisco Magno outlined the initiative’s rationale, emphasizing the need for collaborative action to close gaps in gender equality and child protection policies. His discussion connected global SDG frameworks to the realities of local governance.

Prof. Eddie Nuque is scheduled to lead a session titled “Empowering Action: Developing Training and Activities for Effective Planning.” The workshop aims to equip participants with tools and methodologies to translate policy concepts into actionable programs. Nuque plans to emphasize contextualized training and strategic performance management, encouraging participants to utilize community-specific insights to create sustainable initiatives.

Further discussions will be facilitated by Prof. Ian Jayson Hecita, who will guide participants in developing an “Action Plan Roadmap for Equity: Envisioning a Policy Center for Women and Children.” His session will focus on creating a data-driven and inclusive policy framework while encouraging stakeholder involvement.

The three-day event will conclude by setting the strategic direction for the policy center, followed by two days dedicated to action planning, evaluation, and output presentations.

Expert insights from Dr. Leonora Angeles of the University of British Columbia and Fulbright scholar Juliene Porciuncula from North Carolina State University are expected to enrich the discussions.

“This initiative demonstrates ISUFST’s leadership in fostering sustainable and inclusive development, further solidifying its role as a catalyst for change in the region,” Dr. Siason said.

Participants and facilitators aim to create a clear, actionable roadmap to improve local governance and policy-making, aligning with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. (Photos by Warren John Oronan/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)