Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) marked World Interfaith Harmony Week and the official opening of Arts Month with a vibrant celebration at the Juanito Bruno Gymnasium

Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) marked World Interfaith Harmony Week and the official opening of Arts Month with a vibrant celebration at the Juanito Bruno Gymnasium on February 3, 2025.

With the theme โ€œCelebrating the Call to Build Harmony and Peace with All People of Sincere Hearts,โ€ Dr. Joselito Madroรฑal, Vice President for Administration and Finance, emphasized the universityโ€™s role as a beacon of peace. โ€œFor many years, WMSU has been more than just an institution of learning. We have been a force for change, a catalyst for peacebuilding, and a steadfast partner in the pursuit of harmony,โ€ he stated.

The WMSU Peace and Human Security Institute, led by Assoc. Prof. Ludivina B. Dekit, organized the event and invited three distinguished speakers renowned for their peace advocacy:

โ— Fr. Sebastian Dโ€™Ambra, founder of the Silsilah Dialogue Movement

โ— Sheik Mahir Gustaham, Muslim Convener of the Interreligious Solidarity for Peace

โ— Fr. Guilrey Anthony Andal, SJ, President of Ateneo de Zamboanga University

Following the interfaith celebration, WMSU officially launched Arts Month with the theme โ€œAni ng Sining, Diwa at Damdamin.โ€ The event featured a colorful parade with participants from various colleges, showcasing the universityโ€™s rich artistic spirit. The Office of Culture and Arts, under the leadership of Dr. Almira E. Nochefranca, has planned a series of cultural and artistic activities throughout the month to celebrate creativity and self-expression.