Universities as Pillars of Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Second in a Series of Four
By Genevieve Balance Kupang
Organizer of the SDG Boot Camp #16 & #17
International perspectives enriched the dialogue at the second series of the Boot Camp on SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), held as part of RISE 2025. Building on the momentum of the first series, this gathering brought together diverse voices from academia and beyond to deepen the conversation on how universities serve as vital pillars in advancing peace, justice, and sustainable global partnerships. For those who missed the first series, it can be accessed here: https://www.pressenza.com/2025/06/boot-camp-sdg-16-17-of-rise-2025-advances-peace-justice-and-global-goals/
The Horrors of the Rubbles and the Cost of Wars: A Call for Justice
To see these images is to reflect deeply and take concrete actions toward realizing peace, justice, and the strengthening of institutions.
The harrowing personal testimony of Mahadia Abu Dalal, a Gazan refugee, brought urgency to the conversation by connecting the devastation of war with the universal need for justice and peace. Her narrative with that of her family and community served as a wake-up call of the human cost of war and genocide and the imperative to prevent such horrors worldwide.
Mahadia Abu Dalal, the third speaker, a Gazan refugee shared her personal experience of the war’s devastation and called for justice in response to the genocide in Gaza.
Mahadia related how her family is suffering and enduring the impact of war and militarism:
“Dear friends and participants of RISE 2025,
I come to you carrying the heavy burden of Gaza’s rubble and the stories of my people. The devastation we have endured is beyond words—a humanitarian crisis marked by widespread destruction of homes, hospitals, and schools, and the heartbreaking loss of thousands of innocent lives, including my former students, cousins, relatives, Gazan children, women, the elderly, and even journalists who risked their lives to tell our story. Many families remain shattered, displaced, and trapped under the ruins, with limited access to food, water, and medical aid.
My family and I are deeply grateful that the Philippines has welcomed us as refugees. Adjusting has been difficult; suddenly, from being an English/Arabic educator in Palestine, I have become a saleslady here in the Philippines in order to survive. I am thankful to the kind individuals who have helped me and my family during this challenging transition…
This is not just a distant conflict; it is a daily reality of fear, loss, and silence imposed by severe restrictions on independent reporting. Yet, amidst this darkness, I carry with me the seeds of resurrection and hope. I urge you, as compassionate listeners and global citizens, to understand that our struggle is a call for justice and peace. We need your voices to amplify ours, to demand transparency, and to strengthen institutions that protect human rights.
My travels and encounters have taught me the power of connection and empathy. I share these truths with you not only to inform but to inspire action—because peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of justice, dignity, and humanity for all.”
As an artist, Mahadia concluded her sharing by expressing that she carries with her not only the rubble of Gaza but also the seeds of resurrection, urging everyone to become builders of justice and hope.
Response from Baguio Central University and WCC ATC to Mahadia Abu Dalal
In a moment of powerful solidarity, Dr. Lourdes Trajano of BCU embraces Mahadia Abu Dalal, forging a sisterly bond. Photo credit: The Chronicle Publication.
Solidarity and Unity: Pagdadaupang-palad between Mahadia and a WCC ATC participant.
Humanizing the Earth and The Humanist Forum: Insights from Antonio Carvallo
Antonio Carvallo from the UK, the fourth speaker, joined us online to share insights about Silo, the founder of the Humanist Movement, the philosophy of Humanizing the Earth, the Healing of Suffering, and the Humanist Forum.
Antonio Carvallo, a distinguished humanist and one of the key organizers of the World Humanist Forum in Asia, shared profound insights on “Humanizing the Earth,” drawing inspiration from Silo (Mario Luis Rodríguez Cobos), the Argentine author and spiritual guide who founded the Humanist Movement in 1969. Before delving into the core of his talk, Carvallo expressed his gratitude to the leaders who made RISE 2025 possible: Dr. Raymond Patrick V. Guico, President of WCC Aeronautic and Technological College; Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera, President of Baguio Central University (BCU); the presidents of other co-organizing universities; Dr. Roger Martinez, RISE 2025 Conference Chair; Dr. Rosalie Rosales, Co-Conference Chair; and Ms. Dannah Dulnuan, RISE 2025 Coordinator.
With a legal background from the University of Chile, Carvallo has played a pivotal role in spreading humanist philosophy across continents, promoting nonviolence, compassion, and solidarity as foundational values. He emphasized that humanizing the Earth entails transcending the existential suffering rooted in human consciousness and social violence—a central teaching of Silo’s philosophy.
This transformative process requires both personal growth and collective action to build a Universal Human Nation grounded in respect for all life and guided by the Golden Rule: treating others as we wish to be treated. Carvallo underscored the importance of forums like the Humanist Forum, which he helped organize in Moscow during Perestroika, as vital platforms for dialogue and collaboration toward this shared mission. At RISE 2025, he acknowledged the leadership of the event’s key organizers and expressed sincere gratitude for the invitation extended by Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, reaffirming his commitment to advancing humanist values and sustainable peace across Asia and beyond.
Baguio Central University is immensely grateful to Mr. Antonio Carvallo. Antonio, thank you for your generous sharing of wisdom, your steadfast commitment to humanism, and your vital experiences from “Humanizing the Earth” and the World Humanist Forum-Asia. Your global perspective and tireless dedication to building inclusive, compassionate communities deeply resonate with our mission. Your insights inspire us to expand our own efforts, fostering dialogue and solidarity to achieve a world rooted in dignity, understanding, and peace. Your powerful words during your visit reinforced the profound impact we can make together.
Maraming salamat, Antonio, for joining us and for your lasting contribution to our shared vision for humanity. We send our love, joy, and peace from Baguio City, Philippines!
Exchange of Gifts at the SDG Boot Camp: Our valued partners from WCC ATC proudly display their 3rd World March for Peace and Nonviolence t-shirts, graciously gifted by Baguio Central University. The photo features speakers from the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, Ginhawa, Inc., Baguio Central University, and a Gazan refugee alongside WCC ATC attendees during SDG Boot Camp sessions #16 & 17, symbolizing unity and shared commitment to peace and sustainable development.
Universities as Pillars of Peace: Speakers: Mini Gavino, Michael T. Sebullen, Mahadia Abu Dalal, Antonio Carvallo, Jude William Genilo, Javier Tolcachier, Genevieve B. Kupang. Credit: Christian Charles E. Baguingey.
To our dear readers, stay tuned for the next installment, where you will hear from the other speakers featured above.
#RISE2025BOOTCAMPSDG#16
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About the Author:
Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang is the organizer of the RISE 2025 ICREATE IMPACT SDG Boot Camp for SDG 16 and 17, held in May 2025 at the WCC ATC. She serves as the Peace Education Coordinator for the World Council for Curriculum and Instruction (WCCI) and is a Leadership Team Member of the Exceptional Women of Peace (EWOP) Awards under Pathways to Peace (PTP). Dr. Kupang is also the International Relations Officer and Dean of the Graduate School at Baguio Central University.
