BRIEFER

SDG 10 - REDUCED INEQUALITIES

University of Northern Philippines (UNP) manifests comprehensive commitment to reducing inequalities through initiatives spanning equal access to education, social inclusion advocacy, community empowerment, and institutional policy reforms. UNP promotes equal employment opportunities through multiple recruitment announcements for administrative officers, instructor positions, and various institutional roles, ensuring transparent and merit-based hiring processes that provide equal access to decent work regardless of background. The university celebrated graduates achieving excellence in professional licensure examinations, including Ms. Gretchen Gallandez Estavillo placing fifth in the June 2024 Special Professional Licensure Exam for Professional Teachers and Ms. Nicole Joy Ramos Cabato notching ninth place in the September 2024 examination, highlighting the university's role in providing equal opportunities for career advancement regardless of socioeconomic background. UNP proudly celebrated the success of graduates in the September 2024 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers, demonstrating the provision of quality education that leads to professional success helping reduce socioeconomic inequalities. The university celebrated re-accreditations for various programs enhancing education quality and graduates' employability, reducing inequality of opportunity and ensuring all students receive recognized, high-quality credentials.

UNP advances social inclusion and protection of marginalized communities through targeted advocacy and support programs. The university provided lectures on the Safe Spaces Act and stress management to Persons Deprived of Liberty, promoting social inclusion and protecting marginalized individuals from discrimination while supporting their rehabilitation and reintegration. The student council launched a gender-neutral uniform policy promoting inclusivity and equality for all students regardless of gender identity, challenging traditional norms and creating welcoming environments. The student council organized a Pride March celebrating love, diversity, and equality, supporting the LGBTQ+ community and promoting social inclusion through visible advocacy. The Open University and Center for Gender and Development held a symposium on LGBTQ+ advocacy promoting inclusivity and equal rights within the university and broader community, addressing discrimination and fostering understanding. The university's organization FESTO held an Indigenous People Convergence promoting the inclusion and rights of Indigenous communities, while UNP celebrated Indigenous Peoples Month highlighting the importance of cultural diversity and inclusion in institutional life.

UNP reduces regional and educational inequalities through community partnerships and extension programs. The university launched its Adopt-a-Community-and-School program in two elementary schools providing educational and community development support to reduce regional inequalities and improve access to quality education in underserved areas. Three university offices collaborated to promote gender and development initiatives in Cabugao representing direct efforts to reduce inequalities through coordinated community engagement. The Guidance and Counseling Services, Information and Orientation Services, Center for Gender and Development, and College of Law conducted a symposium on GAD-related laws for student leaders promoting deeper understanding of social justice and reduced inequalities. The Department of Languages and Humanities and College of Business Administration and Accountancy held training on human resource development and financial management essential for improving work skills and professional growth, reducing capability inequalities. The Office of the Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension distributed reading materials on human rights to adopted schools promoting civic education and reducing informational inequality. A student organization from the College of Public Administration provided training to a partner organization promoting collaboration and institutional support for various groups.

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