CatSU launches ‘Kugos’ organization to support pregnant, parenting students
Gender and Development ServicesA
conference attended by 50 students and faculty members at Catanduanes State
University (CatSU) led to the formation of a new organization called
"Kugos" for pregnant and parenting students on March 28, 2023.
The
conference, organized by the Gender and Development Services (GAD) and headed
by Focal Person Prof. Melinda V. Abichuela, aimed to provide a platform for
these students to voice their experiences and concerns, forwarding them to the
CatSU administration for deliberation and appropriate action.
"Kugos,"
the working name until its constitution and bylaws are established, will act as
a support group for young parents juggling their demanding roles, as advocated
by Prof. Reashiela L. Khan.
During
the People's Forum, mother-students shared their disheartening experiences,
such as difficulties in obtaining excuse letters from professors to attend to
their sick infants. Others suggested that attendance at college week and
university-wide Olympic events should not be mandatory for parents, allowing
them to focus on their children.
Elected
officers for Kogus include President Katrina B. Gianan, Vice President
Charmaine H. Tuplano, Secretary Kriza A. Barrios, Treasurer Louwella Umbao,
Mass Media Officer Raela Alma L. Sebastian, Business Managers Cyrene A. Morales
and Angelica F. Alejandro, and Peace Officers Antonette T. Tribiana and
Jechnova T. Dela Cruz.
The
Parenting and Pregnant Students' Conference is part of CatSU-GAD's series of
activities in celebration of National Women's Month.
Meanwhile, an ongoing activity, "Women in CatSU," was also launched by GAD to feature inspiring stories from notable women who have significantly contributed to the university, such as Ms. Milagros Gianan III, Ms. Marilyn G. Tejada, Ms. Madilyn Borromeo, Dr. Gemma M. Samas, Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, Dr. Gemma G. Acedo, Dr. Lily P. Custodio, and Prof. Jane Rose Azanza.
Their stories can be seen in the CatSU official Facebook page. | Via Gender and Development Services
