The Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST), through the International Linkages Office in collaboration with the Gender and Development Office and the Social Sciences Department, successfully hosted a joint academic collaboration with Hiroshima University under the joint institutional initiative PROJECT S.H.I.E.L.D. (Strengthening Harassment Intervention through Education, Leadership, and Development) on March 19, 2026.

Ms. Hiromi Yamauchi, MA, Associate Professor and Consultant from the Harassment Consultation Office of Hiroshima University, served as the resource speaker. She delivered a speaking engagement on gender sensitivity, harassment consultation frameworks, and systems that foster a safe and inclusive academic environment. Her visit forms part of the International Linkages Office’s academic exchange initiatives and also includes the conduct of scholarly discussions aimed at strengthening knowledge exchange and institutional collaboration.

Anchored on Project S.H.I.E.L.D., this speaking engagement seeks to enhance awareness, strengthen institutional capacity, and equip members of the academic community with education-driven approaches in addressing harassment and promoting inclusivity. This activity also forms part of the College’s observance of Women’s Month, highlighting its continued commitment to gender equality and empowerment.

This milestone underscores ZSCMST’s commitment to expanding its global academic linkages while upholding its mandate to advance inclusive education, gender responsiveness, and international collaboration.