SU co-hosts national GEDSI Research Conference on inclusive education

Silliman University (SU), in partnership with Pathways Center for Lifelong Learning, Inc., hosted the 2025 Research Conference on Gender Equality, Diversity, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) in Education from November 28–30, 2025, at the SU Multipurpose Room.

The three-day conference was conducted in a hybrid format, accommodating both onsite and online participants from various institutions across the country.

Carrying the theme “Expanding Learning Spaces through Gender-Responsive and Inclusive Pedagogy,” the conference aimed to promote scholarly dialogue on the integration of GEDSI principles in education.

Dr. Alana Leilani C. Narciso, College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) dean, welcomes the participants at the conference.

It brought together educators, researchers, students, and development advocates who shared research findings, ongoing projects, and practical insights on fostering inclusive and equitable learning environments.

In her welcome remarks, College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Dean Dr. Alana Leilani C. Narciso emphasized the importance of listening to learners’ lived experiences in advancing gender equality and inclusion in education.

“If we truly want to advance gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, we must begin by listening—truly listening—to the stories that students bring into our classrooms,” she said, underscoring the role of educators in creating learning spaces where no one has to hide parts of themselves to belong.

Dr. Gina Opiniano, Conference chair, explains the conference rationale.

Conference chair Dr. Gina Opiniano explained the rationale behind the gathering, tracing its beginnings to mid-2025 when Pathways Center for Lifelong Learning, Inc. sought to collaborate with SU.

“We decided to dream big and asked, why not collaborate with a prestigious university like Silliman University?” she said, emphasizing that the strong turnout reflected a shared belief in research and education despite recent challenges.

Opiniano also clarified the meaning of GEDSI, describing it as a mindset aligned with global development goals.

“Gender equality is not a battle between men and women, but about equity and recognizing everyone’s contributions. Diversity is appreciating our differences, and inclusion means ensuring that everyone can participate, contribute, and feel safe,” she said.

Dr. Myraluz V. Waddington, Center for Gender Studies and Development coordinator, speaks on behalf of the center.

Dr. Myraluz V. Waddington, Center for Gender Studies and Development coordinator, highlighted the strength of institutional collaboration and national participation in the conference.

“This research conference is a testament to our shared commitment to building an educational landscape that is inclusive, equitable, and empowering for all,” she said.

She also thanked Pathways Center for Lifelong Learning, Inc. and participating institutions for their continued partnership, noting that the true measure of the conference lay in the collaborations built beyond the event.

Dr. Betty Cernol McCann, SU president, delivers her keynote address.

SU President Dr. Betty Cernol McCann delivered the keynote address titled “Reimagining Diversity and Inclusion: Markers of Excellence in Whole Person Education.” Drawing on her academic and leadership experience, she emphasized that inclusion is central to educational excellence.

“Excellence without inclusion is incomplete,” she said, adding that expanding learning spaces meant going beyond physical classrooms to embrace learners’ diverse identities, contexts, and experiences.

The Conference organizers, Asst. Prof. Arvin C. Revagorda, Philosophy Department faculty member; Norliza M. Nordan, Pathways Center for Lifelong Learning, Inc. Board secretary; Dr. Mary Pauline V. Saquing-Sellers, Pathways Center for Lifelong Learning, Inc. president; Dr. Gina Opiniano, Pathways Center for Lifelong Learning, Inc. conference chair; Dr. Myraluz V. Waddington, Center for Gender Studies and Development coordinator; and Dr. Lj Zaphan Butiong Lamboloto, Philosophy Department chairperson, pose at the event.

McCann further emphasized that gender-responsive and inclusive pedagogy required educators and institutions to move from policy to practice.

“Education must not only inform, but also transform,” she said, reiterating SU’s commitment to whole person education as a foundation for justice, compassion, and meaningful social change.

Organizers and participants of the 2025 GEDSI Research Conference pose at the event.