Manila: The Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU) in Negros Occidental, recognized as the first educational institution in the Negros Island Region to establish a Center for Human Rights Education (CHRE), is preparing to integrate human rights into its course offerings.
According to Philippines News Agency, this initiative was formalized through a memorandum of agreement between the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and CHMSU. The agreement was represented by Commissioner Beda Epres from CHR and University Vice President for Academic Affairs Russel De la Torre during a signing ceremony at the CHMSU main campus function hall.
In a statement during the ceremony, Epres expressed the CHR's commitment to the partnership, emphasizing that the agreement signifies more than just a document, but a covenant aimed at fostering human rights education. He highlighted the vision for the center to be a place where human rights are actively practiced, taught, and lived, and not only discussed theoretically.
Epres further elaborated on the role of the CHRE, stating that it should be a space where educators are empowered, students find inspiration, and communities engage in promoting respect for human dignity.
The CHRE will be a collaborative effort hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences-Social Science Program, under Dean Arjay Alvarado, and the College of Criminal Justice, led by Dean Purisima Romero. The agreement mandates the CHRE to integrate human rights into the university's curricula, conduct research, develop educational resources, and assist in setting up human rights action centers.
De la Torre assured the readiness of the state university for this collaboration, emphasizing that learning at the university extends beyond classrooms and welcoming the new partnership with the CHR.
Rhoderick Samonte, CHMSU Center for Internationalization and External Relations Director, reminded students of the importance of understanding their rights and limitations, as it is crucial in shaping responsible and contributing citizens.
