Gender and Development

Sagad Elementary School Empowers Educators Through Gender and Development Training

Sagad Elementary School's recent endeavor, the Capability Building in Gender and Development, stands as a testament to their commitment to fostering inclusivity and understanding within their institution. Held at the Retreat House and Training Center in Jala-Jala, Rizal, on April 20th and 21st, 2024, this two-day event aimed to equip both teaching and non-teaching staff with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate gender-related issues effectively.

The choice of venue for the event was deliberate, reflecting the school's desire to create an environment conducive to learning and reflection. By holding the training away from the hustle and bustle of daily routines, participants were afforded the opportunity to immerse themselves fully in the discussions and activities that lay ahead.

The first day of the seminar kicked off promptly at 9:00 am, emphasizing the importance of punctuality and dedication to the cause. Administrative tasks, such as attendance logging, were efficiently managed by Grade One teachers, setting the tone for a well-organized and productive event. A brief yet meaningful opening program served to set the stage for the day's proceedings, underscoring the significance of the topics to be explored.

Mr. Pejay B. Sasotona, the School Gender and Development Coordinator, took the lead in facilitating discussions on Sexist Language, Intersexuality, and Mental Health. Through engaging presentations and interactive sessions, Mr. Sasotona shed light on the language barriers that perpetuate gender stereotypes and provided participants with practical strategies to challenge such biases in their daily interactions. The afternoon session saw fruitful discussions continuing until 5:00 pm, with participants actively engaging in group activities and reflecting on their own attitudes and behaviors.

As the dawn of the second day broke, participants reconvened for a brief recapitulation of the previous day's discussions, ensuring that key concepts remained fresh in their minds. Mrs. Luningning A. Enriquez, Master Teacher II, then took the reins, guiding participants through sessions on Gendered Expectations, Promoting Positive Masculinity, and Mental Health. Mrs. Enriquez's insightful presentations, coupled with engaging workshop activities, provided participants with a deeper understanding of societal expectations surrounding gender roles and encouraged them to explore ways to foster healthier attitudes towards masculinity within their respective spheres of influence.

The success of the event can be attributed to the meticulous planning and execution by the organizing committees, led by Mrs. Rowena O. Dimagiba, the School Principal. Under her guidance, the committees worked tirelessly to ensure that the event ran smoothly, from logistics to content delivery. Their efforts created an inclusive and empowering environment where participants felt both supported and challenged to contribute to the discourse surrounding gender equality and mental well-being.

In conclusion, Sagad Elementary School's Capability Building in Gender and Development served as a beacon of progress and inclusivity within the institution. By equipping their staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to address gender-related issues effectively, the school has taken a significant step towards creating a more equitable and supportive learning environment for all.