TACLOBAN CITY — Leyte Normal University (LNU) has taken a historic step in promoting human rights education in the province by signing a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Commission on Human Rights(CHR)regional office to establish the first-ever Center for Human Rights Education (CHRE) in Leyte.
The ceremonial signing, held at the LNU campus on Feb. 26, was led by CHR-8 OIC Regional Director Atty. Joy Sodusta and LNU president Gil Nicetas Villarino, who represented their respective institutions.
Villarino highlighted that human rights education goes beyond classroom instruction, emphasizing that the principles must be reflected in institutional policies, community engagement, and daily interactions on campus. “This Center represents our commitment to integrate human rights into every facet of university life, from academics to service programs,” he said.
Atty. Sodusta praised LNU’s initiative, noting that the CHRE will enhance collaborative efforts to cultivate a culture grounded in respect for human dignity and social responsibility.
Following the signing, stakeholders participated in an action planning session to operationalize the center and integrate human rights principles across the university’s instruction, research, and extension programs.
Both institutions stressed that the partnership underscores a shared commitment to academic excellence anchored in social responsibility while advancing human rights advocacy through the establishment of the CHRE, setting a benchmark for other university.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
