Dr. Finalfor F. Taylan, Dean of the Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) of the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), actively contributed to two significant academic and professional gatherings in April 2026, serving as keynote speaker and resource speaker in events that advanced gender-responsive education and social development practice.

On April 23, 2026, Dr. Taylan served as a Resource Speaker during the training titled “Advancing Gender and Development (GAD) in Open and Distance E-Learning (ODeL): Empowering Teaching and Non-Teaching Personnel for Inclusive and Gender-Responsive Education,” organized by the Pangasinan State University (PSU) Open University Systems and Gender and Development Office in Lingayen, Pangasinan.

During the session, Dr. Taylan delivered a lecture on Gender Issues in Open and Distance e-Learning and Gender-Responsive Curriculum Instruction, emphasizing the importance of integrating gender perspectives into teaching strategies, learning resources, and institutional systems within open and distance education. Citing UPOU’s initiatives as examples, she highlighted that gender-responsive approaches contribute to inclusive learning environments and support equitable access to quality education across diverse learner groups. 

Earlier, on April 20, 2026, Dean Taylan also took part in the Social Work Students’ Summit (SWSS) 2026, organized by social work student organizations in Metro Manila, held at the University of the Philippines Diliman.

In her message to participants, Dr. Taylan stressed that social workers play a critical role in building responsive communities and addressing emerging social challenges. She encouraged aspiring social workers to remain steadfast in promoting social development and inclusive progress, even in the face of uncertainty and hopelessness. Her keynote message highlighted the enduring value of compassion, professional responsibility, and collective action in advancing sustainable and equitable development.

Dean Taylan’s participation in these engagements reflects UPOU’s sustained commitment to advancing gender equality, inclusive education, and social development through partnerships, capacity-building initiatives, and knowledge sharing across institutions.

Written by: Dona Lyn M. Piamonte • Edited by: Dr. Finaflor F. Taylan and Larry N. Cruz

Sustainable Development Goals