THE Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) is making significant strides in promoting inclusivity and sustainability for Indigenous Peoples (IPs) within the higher education institutions by hosting the First Philippine Education Conference on Indigenous Peoples on July 4-5 at Bukidnon State University in Malaybalay, Bukidnon.

CHEd Commissioner Ronald Adamat, the oversight commissioner for Indigenous Peoples and peace studies, cited the importance of recognizing indigenous knowledge systems that have sustained communities for generations.

"As Filipinos, we must acknowledge that indigenous knowledge systems are integral to our national identity and cultural heritage," said Adamat, a member of the Teduray tribe from Upi, Maguindanao.

"By valuing and integrating these diverse perspectives, we not only promote inclusivity but also foster sustainability."

On Thursday, Dr. Mark Anthony Torres, director of Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, discussed the role of higher education institutions in facilitating intercultural dialogue.

"We aim to establish mechanisms for IP communities to provide feedback on educational programs and policies, provide culturally relevant learning materials, offer scholarship grants and other financial assistance to IP students, and address health and nutrition needs essential for ensuring students are physically and mentally ready to learn," Torres said.

Dr. Hazel Jean Abejuela, vice president for academic affairs of Bukidnon State University, talked about integrating indigenous knowledge into higher education curriculum.

"As the forerunner of the Cultural Heritage of the Province of Bukidnon, Bukidnon State University focuses on innovative and ethical leadership and cultural heritage stewardship," Abejuela said.

Datu Salakup Rodelio Saway, visual artist and musician from Talaandig Tribe in Bukidnon, introduced IP music and arts as alternative platforms for Indigenous Peoples education.

"Let us appreciate and showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines through music and arts," Saway said.

Adamat said the Philippine Constitution acknowledges this diversity and mandates the state's recognition, protection, promotion and fulfilment of Indigenous Peoples' rights within the framework of national unity and development.

The event, held under the theme "Building Indigenous Knowledge for Inclusivity and Sustainability," was launched to provide a platform for sharing experiences, overcoming challenges, and highlighting the integration of indigenous knowledge and peace education within academic settings.

The conference features plenary talks, report on the initiatives of CHEd regional offices on Indigenous Peoples education, award for the most innovative higher education institutions in promoting IP education and cultural shows.

On Friday, plenary talks anchoring in the theme, "Voices of Heritage: Celebrating Indigenous Culture through Songs and Dances," will be facilitated by Dr. Raymundo Rovillos, interim president of Pangasinan Polytechnic College while Bae Limpayen Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las, chairperson of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, will speak about empowering indigenous communities through knowledge integration.