Benguet State University (BSU) is committed to reducing inequalities through policies and programs that promote equal access to education, inclusive participation, non-discrimination, disability inclusion, gender equality, and protection from harassment. The University implements institutional mechanisms that ensure students and employees from underrepresented and vulnerable sectors are provided with equitable opportunities, support services, and accessible facilities necessary for academic success and full participation in university life.
Non-Discriminatory Admissions and Equal Access to Education
BSU maintains a publicly available Admission Policy that promotes equal access to higher education and prohibits discrimination in student admissions. The University follows the admission requirements and guidelines prescribed by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and applies merit-based admission processes regardless of sex, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or socioeconomic background. The University also provides scholarships, student assistance programs, and support services for persons with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, and financially disadvantaged.
Monitoring and Support for Underrepresented Groups
BSU measures and tracks participation of underrepresented groups through institutional records maintained by the Office of Student Services and other university offices. The University collects sex-disaggregated data and monitors vulnerable sectors to guide policy development and student interventions. For the first semester of SY 2026–2027, BSU recorded:
- 106 students with disabilities
- 71 solo parent students
These monitoring systems help identify participation gaps and support evidence-based interventions that improve access, retention, and student success.
Accessibility and Disability Inclusion
BSU maintains disability-inclusive infrastructure across its campuses to ensure equal access for persons with disabilities.
Accessible facilities include:
- Ramps
- Non-slip sidewalks
- Tactile pavements
- Covered walkways
- Accessible restrooms
- Designated PWD parking areas
These facilities support independent mobility and access to academic buildings, student services, and university resources.
Inclusive Recruitment and Student Support Programs
BSU actively recruits and supports students from underrepresented and vulnerable sectors through inclusive admission practices, scholarships, student welfare programs, and targeted support services.
Students with disabilities and solo parents receive assistance through the Office of Student Services and are provided access to:
- Child-minding centers
- Lactation stations
- Counseling and welfare services
- Disability-inclusive facilities
- Student assistance mechanisms
These services reduce barriers to participation and help ensure educational success among disadvantaged groups.
Institutional Policies Against Discrimination
BSU implements institutional policies that uphold equality, diversity, and non-discrimination throughout the University community. The Admissions and Retention Policy guarantees fair access to education, while Equal Employment Policies ensure that recruitment, promotion, and employment decisions are based on merit and qualifications.
The University also implements a Policy on Breastfeeding that safeguards the rights of breastfeeding employees through dedicated facilities and support mechanisms.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Human Rights Governance
BSU maintains institutional offices dedicated to diversity, equity, inclusion, gender equality, and human rights. The University’s Gender and Development (GAD) Office leads the implementation of gender-responsive programs, policy advocacy, capacity-building activities, and inclusion initiatives for students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders.
The GAD Office collaborates with the Academic, Research, Extension, and Production units of the university and external partners in conducting mentoring activities, intercultural exchanges, research symposia, and training initiatives that promote inclusive participation and equitable opportunities.
New Childminding Center launched at BSU
GAD Office, CF organized forest bathing for BSU employees
Mentoring, Counseling, and Welfare Programs
Through the Office of Student Services, BSU provides mentoring, counseling, and welfare support programs for students from marginalized and vulnerable sectors. Specialized interventions support students with disabilities, solo parents, women, and students requiring additional assistance.
The University further provides child-minding centers, lactation stations, guidance services, and welfare assistance programs that contribute to student well-being and equal educational outcomes.
Reasonable Accommodation and Access Schemes
BSU implements reasonable accommodation measures for students with disabilities through accessible infrastructure, disability-inclusive services, and individualized student support mechanisms.
The University recorded 106 enrolled students with disabilities during the first semester of SY 2026–2027 and provides support services that facilitate their active participation in academic and campus life.
Anti-Harassment and Safe Campus Environment
BSU promotes a safe and inclusive environment through anti-harassment policies, grievance mechanisms, and compliance with national legislation, including:
- Republic Act No. 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act)
- Republic Act No. 11313 (Safe Spaces Act)
The University maintains formal reporting and redress mechanisms through its Grievance Machinery and BSU Public Complaints and Compliments Desk, allowing students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders to report concerns and seek assistance without fear of retaliation.
REFERENCES
Benguet State University. Office of Student Services. https://bsu.edu.ph/student-services/
Benguet State University. Gender and Development Office. https://bsu.edu.ph/gad
Benguet State University. Human Resource Management Office. https://bsu.edu.ph/administration/hrmo
Benguet State University. International Relations Office. https://bsu.international/
Benguet State University. Main Website. https://bsu.edu.ph
Commission on Higher Education. https://ched.gov.ph
Philippine Commission on Women. https://pcw.gov.ph
Republic Act No. 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995). https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra1995/ra_7877_1995.html
Republic Act No. 11313 (Safe Spaces Act of 2019). https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2019/ra_11313_2019.html
