The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), through its Gender and Development (GAD) Office, Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), and OJT and Career Development Center, conducted a seminar on promoting safe spaces and safeguarding student well-being with the theme “Thrive as One: Sustaining Safe Spaces, Safeguarding Student Well-Being” on November 12, 2026, at the University Gymnasium, NEUST Sumacab Campus.
The activity underscored the importance of fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where students feel safe, valued, and protected. It also aimed to strengthen awareness of student rights, protection mechanisms, and shared responsibilities within the university community.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Ma. Lourdes Quijano, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs and Services, emphasized the university’s commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment through the collaborative efforts of the GAD Office, OSAS, and OJT and Career Development Center.
Meanwhile, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Feliciana Jacoba highlighted the importance of preparing students for their upcoming on-the-job training (OJT) and transition from academic life to the professional workplace.
She stressed that student safety, health, and well-being must remain priorities as they enter professional environments.
“The most important thing is your safety, your health, and most importantly, you should enjoy your studies while earning your respective degrees,” she said.
University President Dr. Rhodora Jugo underscored that creating a safe and inclusive university environment goes beyond institutional policies and requires the active participation of every member of the academic community.
She also highlighted the value of simple acts of kindness, genuine concern, and emotional support in making students feel safe, accepted, and valued.
“When each student is safe, they are given the strength to dream, to grow, and to succeed,” she said.
The lecture proper featured Atty. James Lee Cundangan, Assistant Solicitor General of the Office of the Solicitor General, who discussed the Safe Spaces Act (Republic Act No. 11313).
He shared his personal journey from being a university student with dreams and uncertainties to becoming a professional who now shares his knowledge and experiences with students.
Atty. Cundangan emphasized the importance of understanding appropriate conduct, respecting others, and recognizing the differences between the academic environment and the professional workplace. He also encouraged students to remain ambitious, believe in their potential, and pursue their dreams despite the challenges they may encounter.
Meanwhile, Mr. Matthew Mercado, RPM, a faculty member of the College of Arts and Sciences, discussed safeguarding student well-being, particularly during the transition from academic life to the workplace as students prepare for their on-the-job training.
His presentation emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental, emotional, and physical well-being while understanding their rights and responsibilities as interns.
The seminar reinforced NEUST’s commitment to protecting student welfare and promoting a culture of respect, inclusivity, and accountability, ensuring that students are equipped with the knowledge and awareness to uphold safe spaces and safeguard their well-being both within the university and in their future workplaces.
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