The Philippine Normal University (PNU), through the Gender Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Office (GEDIO) Director, Asst. Prof. Iona Ofelia B. Zanoria, took part in the GEDI Leadership Forum and Workshop held in the United Kingdom from October 29 to 31, 2025. The event was organized by the British Council in partnership with the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre for Higher Education and Development (SEAMEO RIHED).

Also in attendance at the activity were three regional directors from the Commission on Higher Education, namely Dir. Edna Imelda F. Legazpi of CHED MIMAROPA, Dr. Demetrio P. Anduyan, Jr. of CHED RO V, and Dr. Nelia A. Alibin of CHED CARAGA.

The three-day program opened with a study visit to the Institute of Development Studies at the University of Sussex in Brighton, where delegates explored models and best practices on the implementation of GEDI initiatives in higher education. The visit also featured in-depth discussions on anti-sexual harassment, respect policy, women empowerment, and inclusive programs and practices.

The UK engagement concluded with the GEDI Leadership Forum at Woburn House in London. During the forum, PNU—together with its partner institution, Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland—presented the results of their collaborative research under the GEDI Research Challenge Grant, which focused on strengthening GEDI integration within higher education curricula. Other Southeast Asia–United Kingdom partner universities likewise shared the outcomes of their respective grant-funded research projects.

Participants collectively reaffirmed their commitment to advancing gender equity, diversity, and inclusion across the higher education sector. The forum marked a significant step toward translating policies into meaningful practice and building a future where diversity and equity form the foundation of global education. Stakeholders expressed optimism and anticipation for the forthcoming Phase III of the GEDI initiative.