In a proactive move toward holistic student development and gender awareness, Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) held a comprehensive day-long event today, March 11, 2026, organized by the Gender and Development (GAD) Center.

The program, titled "Women’s Table Sessions and Self-Defense Seminar," brought together advocacy experts, safety professionals and student representatives from CTED, CCJE, CTHM, CBA, CAS and CEA.

The morning kicked off with a welcome address from Hon. Reymer John B. Ferrer, NORSU-SGDC President, who set an inclusive tone for the day. The "Women’s Table" series featured three distinct sessions:

Session I: Led by Ms. Christine Tano, Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) Lead, Girls Congress, sharing her expertise and insights to the participants Session II: Facilitated by Dr. Aileen Mahinay-Felix, GAD Director, providing institutional perspectives on gender equality.
Session III: Hosted by Ms. Dulce De Guzman, a Registered Guidance Counselor, who addressed the psychological aspects of well-being and resilience.
The morning concluded with an Open Forum, allowing students to engage directly with the speakers and voice their concerns regarding campus life and gender dynamics.

Following the midday break, the focus shifted from dialogue to action. The afternoon was dedicated to a high-impact Self-Defense Seminar conducted by Mr. Clint Jude Verano, Sports Development Officer for Dumaguete City.

The three-hour session provided students with practical, hands-on techniques designed to enhance personal safety and situational awareness.

Through initiatives of the GAD program, NORSU continues to demonstrate that education extends far beyond the four walls of a classroom—encompassing safety, equality, and the courage to lead.