DOST promotes an inclusive work culture with gender sensitivity training
In a move to cultivate a more inclusive work environment, the Department of Science and Technology – Central Office (DOST-CO), through its Gender and Development Unit (GADU) commenced its first Gender Sensitivity Training (GST) for newly hired employees.

As part of the department's institutional response to Section 24 of RA 9710, also known as the Magna Carta of Women, the DOST said the training session underscored the importance of implementing gender-sensitive practices in government agencies.

“As civil servants, we need to appreciate GAD and eventually become its advocates. It is time that we all see gender as a spectrum instead of two sets of opposing ideals,” said DOST Assistant Secretary for Administrative and Legal Affairs GAD Focal Person Diana Ignacio in a statement issued Monday, May 20.
She believes that recognizing this training yields lifetime lessons about creating lasting change. "By understanding these complexities, we can close the gender gap and create a truly equal workplace,” she added.
Ignacio also explained that the GAD program of the department aims to pursue a gender-responsive work culture where competent men and women employees are “gender sensitized” and support the crafting of gender-responsive policies, programs, projects, and activities.
On the other hand, Project Senior Technical Specialist from DOST GADU Maria Fe Singson discussed the GAD concepts, perspectives, issues, stereotypes, and the importance of gender equity in the workplace.
“The GST will show the value of having an enabling environment for men and women. We have different levels of understanding of the perspectives and experiences of men and women, but we have to respect it,” Singson said.
On top of these, she stressed that the department is making a gender mainstreaming effort to ensure that all of the scientific and technological innovations are geared and utilized in areas of economic and social benefit for all Filipinos.