St. Michael’s College of Iligan, Inc. strengthens its long-term commitment to SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through a sustained, year-round initiative led by the Wihdah Muslim Students Association (WiMSA). Building on the success of its Islamic Seminar series, the institution continues to implement a holistic and inclusive program aimed at deepening interfaith understanding, fostering cultural competence, and creating a peaceful and inclusive campus environment.
Each academic year, WiMSA organizes a continuous cycle of activities centered on the theme “Shared Struggles, Different Faith: Understanding Religion and Cultural Understanding.” These programs are intentionally designed to promote dialogue, respect, and mutual recognition among students from diverse religious backgrounds, particularly within both the Basic and Higher Education Departments.
A key feature of this initiative is the institutionalized partnership with Ustadh Abdul Jabbar Montañer, Chairman of Al-Jalis As-Salih, which was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This partnership ensures consistent collaboration and includes:
- Monthly spiritual formation activities every first Friday of the month, strengthening the spiritual growth and identity formation of Muslim learners;
- Regular sessions led by qualified Islamic scholars and resource speakers, providing credible and culturally grounded discussions on Islamic teachings and values;
- Scheduled interfaith dialogue programs that bring together students of different beliefs to engage in conversations about peace, diversity, and shared human values;
- Guaranteed access to institutional venues and support services, ensuring inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability of the program across departments.
Through this year-round effort, St. Michael’s College demonstrates a proactive, innovative approach to promoting social cohesion, cultural harmony, and peaceful co-existence. By empowering student organizations and strengthening external partnerships, the institution provides a model for how higher education can bridge religious differences and cultivate resilient learning communities.
This ongoing initiative exemplifies the WURI spirit by highlighting innovation in social responsibility, inclusive engagement, and long-term community impact, positioning St. Michael’s College as a leader in fostering peace, justice, and sustainable development within and beyond its campus.
