Recognition for Work That Reaches Beyond the Classroom
GENERAL SANTOS CITY- The Gawad Kapayapaan 2026 awards recognized MSU-GSC IPDM alongside four other peace champions during the culmination of National Peace Consciousness Month. According to OPAPRU, the institute was honored for its contributions through academic research, capacity-building, and engagement with communities, particularly in Mindanao. Its work demonstrates how universities can contribute to peace efforts beyond conventional teaching by helping communities understand conflict and explore practical approaches to development. The award also highlights the role of academic institutions in supporting dialogue and strengthening social cohesion.
Connecting Research With the Realities of Mindanao
IPDM's work includes supporting peace processes involving the Moro National Liberation Front and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front through research, policy development, training, and community transformation initiatives. OPAPRU also cited the institute's peace education academies, Women, Peace, and Security forums, and training programs for peace champions. These activities connect academic knowledge with the experiences and needs of communities affected by conflict. The institute's efforts illustrate how education and community participation can complement broader peacebuilding initiatives. Rather than treating peace as an abstract concept, these programs focus on developing knowledge and skills that can be applied in real situations.
Building a Culture of Peace Through Education and Partnership
The recognition also draws attention to the contribution of educators, community organizations, and institutions working toward a more peaceful society. OPAPRU's 2026 award list included the Teach Peace, Build Peace Movement Inc., the Provincial Government of Northern Samar, Dr. Loreta Navarro-Castro, and Gagandilan Mindanao Women Inc., alongside MSU-IPDM. Their different areas of work—from peace education to women's empowerment and community reintegration—show that peacebuilding requires contributions from many sectors. For MSU-General Santos, the recognition brings wider attention to the value of connecting higher education with community needs and peace initiatives. The continuing challenge is to sustain these efforts so that the principles of dialogue, inclusion, and nonviolence can shape everyday community life.
