MSU – Maguindanao Presents the Diploma in Women, Peace, and Security to the Bangsamoro Parliament’s Committee on Women, Youth, Children, and Persons with Disabilities
On July 25, 2024, Mindanao State University – Maguindanao was invited by the Committee on Women, Youth, Children, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), chaired by Member of Parliament Diamila Disimban–Ramos, to present the Diploma in Women, Peace, and Security (DWPS). Representing Chancellor Bai Hejira Nefertiti M. Limbona, IPDM Director Grant Warren Lu and DWPS Coordinator Princess Sheryn A. Mamucao presented the program to the committee. Director Lu emphasized the collaboration between the Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy, led by Amina Rasul–Bernardo, and MSU–Maguindanao in developing an academic program responsive to pressing issues in the Bangsamoro region. This initiative has also received support from international, national, and regional institutions, including the UK Government, ICAN, Women Alliance on Security and Leadership, UNDP–Philippines, and the Bangsamoro Women Commission. He outlined the DWPS curriculum, faculty strengths, and the rigorous process of establishing the program. Dr. Mamucao discussed the admission and enrollment procedures and encouraged parliament members to promote the program within their networks.
Director Lu highlighted four key areas for collaboration with the Bangsamoro Parliament: inviting parliament members as lecturers and speakers, sharing resources and learning materials, providing scholarships for students, and establishing learning facilities for the program.
During the discussion, Chair MP Disimban–Ramos praised MSU–Maguindanao for developing this milestone academic program, making it the first in Southeast Asia to offer a degree in Women, Peace, and Security. She announced her office’s plans to draft a resolution supporting the program. MP Susana S. Anayatin also expressed her commendation and support, showing enthusiasm for joining the roster of visiting lecturers. MP Froilyn Mendoza echoed this support, highlighting her interest in providing perspectives on indigenous cultural communities within the DWPS program and sharing stories of IP women’s rights violations. MP Nurredha I. Misuari also attended in person, while other members of the committee attended online. Additionally, representatives from Catholic Relief Services and Save the Children discussed potential support for the program.
This presentation underscores MSU–Maguindanao’s commitment to supporting Bangsamoro leaders in improving community welfare and fostering a more peaceful environment for women and their families.
Author: Grant Warren D. Lu