Awareness and Implementation of Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) in Private Catholic Institution

The study determined the extent of awareness and implementation of Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) among college students in Private Catholic Institution of Escalante City, Negros Occidental. It focused on students’ perception of GEDSI efforts, awareness of rights and responsibilities, social inclusion and equity issues, inclusive teaching practices, and student support services. Using a descriptive–comparative–correlational research design, 333 selected students were chosen through stratified random sampling during the Academic Year 2025–2026. Data were gathered using a researcher-made questionnaire. The instrument underwent content validation by nine experts using the Lawshe Method and obtained a Content Validity Index (CVI) of 0.92, indicating very high content validity. A pilot test involving 30 college students was also conducted, and the instrument achieved a Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient of 0.952, demonstrating excellent reliability. The collected data were analyzed using frequency count, percentage, mean, t-test, ANOVA, and Pearson r. Findings revealed that students demonstrated a very high level of awareness and implementation of GEDSI, particularly in Awareness of Rights and Responsibilities. However, lower results were observed in Students’ Perception of GEDSI Efforts and participation in institutional GEDSI-related activities, indicating weaker experiential engagement despite high conceptual awareness. Significant differences were found in selected dimensions when grouped according to gender, academic program, and year level, while age showed no significant influence. Moreover, a significant positive relationship existed between awareness and implementation of GEDSI. The study concluded that while students possessed strong understanding of GEDSI principles, greater emphasis on participation and engagement in institutional inclusion initiatives remained necessary. Consequently, the study recommended the implementation of the Strengthening Awareness and Inclusive Engagement Program (SAIEP) to enhance students’ exposure and participation in GEDSI-related activities.

Gender Equality, Disability, Social Inclusion, GEDSI Awareness, GEDSI Implementation

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