Aliah P. Cali-Pascan, DPA, JD
In the blessed month of Ramadan, Mindanao State University (MSU) IPDM Marawi City has become a vibrant hub of spiritual enrichment and community empowerment, hosting a special Ramadan (Muhadara) Seminar Series dedicated to the esteemed women of the Bangsamoro region. This initiative, masterfully blending the essence of Ramadan during the month of March which is also known as National Women’s Month and Bangsamoro History Month has created a powerful platform for knowledge sharing and unity.
Every Thursday throughout Ramadan, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the IPDM Convergence Hall at MSU Marawi City has welcomed women to engage in insightful discussions and strengthen their bonds. The series, running from March 6th to March 27th, features a lineup of distinguished speakers from Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, delivering profound insights into faith, history, and women’s contributions.
The inaugural session on March 6th set the tone for the series, marked by a warm welcome address that resonated with respect and spiritual significance. “It is with immense joy and gratitude that we welcome you to the inaugural session of our Ramadan Seminar Series,” the address began, emphasizing the significance of Ramadan.
This enriching program is a testament to the power of collaboration, made possible through the valued partnerships between the Bangsamoro Women Commission, Lanao del Sur; Mindanao State University (MSU); IPDM Marawi City; the Aga Khan Museum; and the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) GAD Focal Person. Commissioner Samaona P. Unda, in her opening remarks, highlighted the significance of this collaborative effort, stating, “Collaboration is the key here. Since every agency can have a seminar stand alone but we collaborate to show unity. We thank our partners since we continue our partnership on its second series.”
The first session featured insightful presentations by Nor-ain Cairoden and Aisha Abdulhalim, whose expertise provided valuable knowledge and inspiration to the attendees. Dr. Linang Macabalang further emphasized the importance of the seminar, highlighting its role in spiritual renewal and the blessings it brings.
Dr. Anisah Mapupuno-Laguindab closed the program with heartfelt thanks to all participants, following an engaging open forum that fostered dialogue and reflection. The seminar series, enriched by the support of the Aga Khan Museum and the NCMF, promises exciting surprises in upcoming sessions, further enhancing the experience for attendees.
“We pray that Allah (SWT) blesses these gatherings, allows us to benefit from the knowledge shared, and honors the legacies of our women and our history,” the organizers expressed, concluding with the heartfelt blessing, “بارك الله فيكن (Barak Allahu feekunna – May Allah bless you all).”
This Ramadan Seminar Series stands as a powerful symbol of unity, knowledge, and empowerment, leaving a lasting impact on the women of the Bangsamoro region and reinforcing the enduring spirit of MSU IPDM Marawi City.
