“Beyond Boundaries: Empowering Communities for Sustainable Development. 

On 29 April 2024, the Dominican Sisters of Charity of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin (Philippine Mission) convened the ‘Beyond Boundaries: Fostering Multistakeholder Engagement in Community Sustainability’ forum at the Marie Poussepin Community Development Centre (MPCDC) in Calasiao, Pangasinan. Organised in partnership with the University of Santo Tomas, Philippines, and in collaboration with the MRC-funded ‘Empowering Communities’ project, the forum aimed to facilitate dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among diverse stakeholders. 

The event commenced with a prayer led by Sr. Diana Constanza Ramirez, OP, followed by an opening address by Sr. Lilly Chalakkal, OP. Professor Anna Robinson-Pant provided insights into the UEA UNESCO Chair in Adult Literacy and Learning for Social Transformation and the ‘Empowering Communities’ project, setting the stage for presentations from various project teams. 

Members of the ‘Empowering Communities’ team from Tribhuvan University in Nepal, along with researchers from other institutions, presented on topics such as ‘Empowering Communities through University Partnerships in Public Health’ and ‘Sustainable Livelihood in Rural Communities through Natural Farming and Intergenerational Learning’. The forum concluded with certificate awards and closing remarks by Sr. Mauricia Burke, OP. Facilitated by Sr. Gina Lontoc (Novice), a member of the UST- MRC project team, the event underscored the importance of partnership and collective action in fostering resilient and thriving communities. 

This inaugural event at the MPCDC signifies a significant step forward for the ministries of the Dominican Sisters of Charity of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin, reaffirming their commitment to serving communities and promoting positive change in alignment with their values and mission. Additionally, it highlights their proactive approach in establishing partnerships with key stakeholders to enhance community development efforts and advance sustainable practices.”

Written By Dr. Gina Lontoc

May 2024