March 19, 2024 - On March 14-15, 2024 Romblon State University (RSU) kicked off the Global Citizenship Education (GCED) Student Fair 2024 at the RSU Quadrangle.

The event, themed “Navigating the Global Landscape: Fostering Global Citizenship for Sustainable Development,” brought together various academic and non-academic student organizations, showcasing numerous innovations and educational booths aligned with the Global Citizenship Education and Sustainable Development Goals.

The program commenced with a warm welcome from Hon. Caven Jay T. Tiaga, President of the Federation of Supreme Student Council (FSSC), followed by messages from the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) Assistant Director, Engr. Kenreid Nuel Dela Vega, and the University President, Dr. Merian Catajay-Mani.

The event aimed to nurture respect, a sense of belonging, and encourage RSUvians to become active citizens making a positive global impact. University President Dr. Merian P. Catajay-Mani urged students to “Dare to be different,” resonating Nelson Mandela’s famous message: “Be the change that you want to see in the world.”

Pres. Mani further declared the University's pledge to continue its GCED and SDG-driven advocacies.

"Makakaasa kayo na hindi nagtatapos sa isang simpleng palatuntunan ang ating pananagutan tungo sa pagunlad. Bagkus ito ay isang panimula tungo sa mas marami pa nating hakbang para sa ikauunlad ng ating mga sarili, ating pamayanan, ating unibersidad, rehiyon, at ng ating bayan," said Pres. Mani. 

A keynote message was delivered by Mr. Aaron James Madrona, Youth Ambassador from the Office of the Congressman, emphasizing the role of global citizenship in cultivating a sustainable future.

He stated, “Every discovery begins with curiosity. Every significant change starts with a single step. Every global citizen can play a greater role in grafting a sustainable future for all of us.”

Dr. Albert J. Tuga, President of the Philippine Normal University (PNU), also shared valuable insights emphasizing the significance of promoting global citizenship with the integration of the accomplishment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The event received commendations from Dr. Albert Tuga because of its clear message to promote GCED initiatives.

The fair was officially opened with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, led by Pres. Mani, top officials, and Hon. Mark Lambert G. Fornea, President of the Supreme Student Council (SSC).

On March 15, 2024, Romblon State University (RSU) continued the celebration of the GCED Fair through the launching Global Citizenship Education (GCED) under the theme “Navigating the Global Landscape: Fostering Global Citizenship for Sustainable Development.” The event took place at the Audio Visual Room and was attended by RSU’s top officials, local government representatives, campus directors, deans, program chairs, student leaders, and GCED advocates.

The program began with a presentation about GCED, followed by the national anthem sung by IIT students.

Dr. Emelyn F. Montoya, Vice President for Academic Affairs, welcomed the attendees, and University President, Dr. Merian Catajay P. Mani, expressed the institution’s commitment to global citizenship and sustainability.

Messages from the Provincial Governor, Hon. Jose R. Riano, and the President of the Philippine Normal University, Dr. Bert J. Tuga, were shared through an audio-visual presentation.

The university’s top officials and GCED advocates performed theo ribbon-cutting ceremony and signing of a pledge of commitment to officially declare the active participation of the university towards the successful realization of GCED and SDG projects and advocacies.

Dr. Rowena Raton Hibanada, the Philippine Director of GCED Cooperation Centre, presented an overview of Global Citizenship Education in the Philippine context, while a discussion ensued with Prof. Bryan Dayuta, Director of the Linkages and International Office of PNU, who also emphasized the importance of internationalization and networking in strengthening partnerships for global citizenship.

The event was interspersed with performances by students from various colleges and concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Jun P. Dalisay, Director of Guidance and Counselling Services.

The fair and launching became an immersive experience centered around global citizenship and sustainable development, proving RSU’s steadfast support for global citizenship, education, and the implementation of sustainable development goals as part of its core principle of serving with honor and excellence.

Source: Romblon State University - Office of the President Official Facebook Page