Loading

The Gender and Development Resource Center (GADRC) conducted a two-day training at Cavite State University on August 16-17, 2023, to assess the university’s compliance with the Accessibility Law. The training was attended by personnel from the university’s Planning and Development Office, Physical Plant Services and Architecture and Civil Engineering faculty members of the College of Engineering and Information Technology.  This training aimed to provide the participants a formal understanding of legal and ethical obligations related to university accessibility.

The opening message was delivered by Dr. Susan G. Tan, Director, GADRC, who emphasized the importance of accessibility principles and the removal of barriers for people with disabilities.

In the morning session, Ar. Don de Vera, Chairperson, Makati Disability Inclusive Business Service Cooperative (MDIBSC), discussed the implementation of Batas Pambansa Bilang 344, the rights of people with disabilities, and the five essential minimum accessibility standards specified in the law which include requirements for ramps, parking, signage, toilets, and doors.

In the afternoon, participants were divided into five groups to conduct accessibility audits in various university buildings wherein participants must identify accessibility challenges and shall recommend architectural improvements. Prior to the audits, Ar. Don de Vera provided instruction on wheelchair usage and demonstrated various wheelchair strategies.

  • Group 1, evaluated the Office of the Students and Services (OSAS).
  • Group 2 assessed the Administration Building
  • Group 3 examined the Agri-Eco Tourism Park.
  • Groups 4 and 5 focused on the university sidewalks.

On the second day, Mr. King David J. Agreda, GAD Coordinator and faculty member at CvSU Cavite City Campus, discussed the integration of Harmonized Gender and Development (GAD) Guidelines in infrastructure. Participants learnt the value of adding gender analysis into development plans and assessed projects using the GAD Generic Checklist for Infrastructure. They also worked on adapting their project ideas to be more gender-responsive.
Dr. Mary Jane D. Tepora, Vice President for Planning and Development, delivered the closing remarks, commending GADRC for conducting the program and acknowledging the participants for their abilities in developing infrastructure projects and managing facilities. She noted that the majority of the university’s facilities are inaccessible, but expressed optimism that future infrastructure developments will be more inclusive and gender-responsive. She encouraged the participants to use their newfound knowledge to help the institution become more gender-responsive and inclusive in the future. (JKRebutazo and MCPSioco)
Pictures during the Accessibility Audit in Office of the Student Affairs and Services
Pictures during the Accessibility Audit in Administration Building
Pictures during the Accessibility Audit in Agri-Eco Tourism Park
Pictures during the Accessibility Audit in sidewalks inside the University

Participants of the two-day training