Mountain Province, like many other areas with indigenous populations, has faced tribal conflicts. These disputes often arise from longstanding issues related to territory, resources, cultural pride, and personal disputes that escalate due to strong cultural ties within tribal communities. There had been numerous efforts towards resolution and peacebuilding to resolve these conflicts, such as the peace pact agreement, such as the Budong.
As an educational institution, MPSP adheres to respect the principle of nonviolence in all the settlement of disputes and conflicts. This conflict affects access to education for students belonging to tribes that are in conflict which instills fear or simply their regard for personal safety and security, preventing learners from going to school. This impacts the access and quality of education, thereby dismantling the foundation of learners, families, and communities and building their future.
MPSPC upholds its status as a Peace Zone, free from violence, political or tribal affiliations, and other divisive influences. This designation is a commitment to protecting students, faculty, staff, and visitors, fostering unity, tolerance, and respect among all community members. The college’s commitment to nonviolence, respect for diversity, and peaceful coexistence reinforces its role as a sanctuary for education and cross-cultural understanding. The peace zone declaration is guided by principles of inclusivity, respect for cultural diversity, and a commitment to sustainable development.
MPSPC as a Peace Zone commits to:
- Nonviolence and Neutrality: MPSPC prohibits any form of physical or verbal violence, intimidation, and discriminatory behavior. The campus shall remain neutral, without favoritism toward any tribe, group, or political affiliation, thereby supporting a culture of inclusivity and open-mindedness.
- Peace Education and Conflict Resolution: MPSPC shall actively incorporate peace education into its curriculum and organize workshops, forums, and training in conflict resolution, intercultural understanding, and empathy. Student-led initiatives promoting peace and unity are strongly encouraged.
- Supportive and Inclusive Environment: All community members—students, faculty, and staff—are encouraged to practice empathy and mutual respect. The university will offer counseling, mental health support, and peer mentoring programs to assist students affected by external conflicts, promoting emotional well-being and resilience.
- Protection of Academic Freedom and Access to Resources: Academic spaces, including libraries, laboratories, and classrooms, are protected as safe and impartial environments for education. All students, regardless of background, are assured access to these facilities without discrimination or restriction.
- Community Engagement and Partnership: MPSPC shall work with local community leaders, peace-building organizations, and other educational institutions to strengthen its role as a peace zone. Programs fostering intercultural understanding and collaborative events will be held regularly, building bridges between the university and its surrounding communities.
Through this Peace Zone designation, MPSPC stands as a symbol of unity, resilience, and commitment to a peaceful academic community where students and staff can thrive without fear or discrimination, cultivating a generation of future leaders dedicated to peace and understanding.
