On July 30, 2025, Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) marked a significant milestone in advancing inclusive and gender-responsive initiatives with the formal launching of its Childminding and Breastfeeding Facility at the ACCESS Campus. The project underscores the university’s continued commitment to supporting the well-being of student-parents and employees through responsive and sustainable institutional programs.
This initiative came to full realization under the dynamic leadership of SKSU President Dr. Samson L. Molao, whose administration has strongly prioritized welfare-driven projects that reflect the university’s commitment to care, equity, and community support.
In her message during the launching ceremony, GAD Director Prof. Rashida Asis emphasized the deeper impact of the initiative beyond its physical space:
“For others, this facility may seem like just a room — a small project that may not directly impact the entire operations or academic standing of the university. But for the student-parents and working mothers who will benefit from this initiative, this space means relief, support, and hope.”
The Childminding Facility is designed to accommodate children aged 2 to 5 years old — specifically those of enrolled students and university employees. Limited to 12 children daily on a first-come, first-served basis, the space provides short-term, non-academic care that allows parents to fulfill their campus responsibilities with peace of mind.
Complementing this is the Breastfeeding Area, a private, hygienic, and comfortable space for lactating mothers to breastfeed or express milk. The facility is equipped with a refrigerator for the safe storage of expressed milk, which can be brought home by mothers at the end of the day.
Special thanks were extended to the CMBF team led by Ms. Nobea Hanna Panalidang, Ms. Yusrah Molao, Ms. Rizza Lumangco, Mr. Ken Catane, Ms. Aprilyn Masual, Mr. Jerald Caliboso, Ms. Sarrah Jane Ombid, Ms. Maria Mae Veroy, and Mr. Aldrin Deputado, along with student leaders from the ACCESS Campus headed by Dr. Jayson Falle. Their dedication ensured the smooth preparation and functionality of the facility.
The launching of the Childminding and Breastfeeding Facility reflects SKSU’s continued pursuit of student-centered, family-friendly initiatives and stands as a testament to the university’s role as a “Generator of Solutions.” Most importantly, it aligns with two key Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 4 – Quality Education, by enabling student-parents to continue their studies without interruption, and SDG 5 – Gender Equality, by empowering women through accessible, supportive spaces that uphold their dual roles as learners and caregivers.
