Marawi City, Lanao del Sur – In a major move to uphold student welfare and strengthen education policy, the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur is laying the groundwork for the Ranaw Students’ Rights and Welfare (R-STRAW) Ordinance.
Spearheaded by the Ranaw Youth Development Office (RYDO), in collaboration with key provincial offices and development partners, the R-STRAW Ordinance seeks to institutionalize responsive, rights-based policies aimed at protecting and empowering students in the province’s educational institutions.
Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid “Mujam” Raki-in Adiong plays a central role in this initiative. Known for his strong advocacy for youth and education, Vice Governor Adiong has consistently emphasized the importance of creating safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environments. His leadership has been instrumental in mobilizing various stakeholders to back the ordinance and contribute to a collective effort addressing student concerns across Lanao del Sur.
The proposed ordinance underscores the provincial government’s broader agenda of advancing education and safeguarding children’s rights. It outlines a framework for promoting student welfare, ensuring sectoral coordination, and implementing institutional measures that foster inclusive and child-friendly schools.
As part of the policy development process, a Stakeholder Consultation has been organized to gather insights from educators, students, government agencies, and civil society groups. The consultation aims to ensure that the final version of the ordinance is grounded in the lived realities of learners and reflects the shared vision of a rights-based educational system.
The R-STRAW Ordinance marks a pivotal step in formalizing student protection policies in Lanao del Sur, signaling a hopeful shift towards a more equitable and responsive education system in the province.