In its constant efforts to establish safe and inclusive spaces within the University community, the Child Minding and Lactation Area of the Isabela State University (ISU) was officially launched and unveiled to the public on February 5, 2024 after the weekly flag raising ceremony.

Through the initiative of the Gender and Development (GAD) Office headed by Dr. Jhamie Tetz I. Mateo (University Director for Gender and Development), the aforementioned area is situated at the first floor of the University Administration Building and houses various instruments and equipment suitable for child care and development.

The area aims to supervise and care for infants and children whose parents are working for the University. It is to provide a secure place where employees can entrust their children to avoid frequent absences from work. Through this, employees can still hold their jobs and perform their tasks in delivering efficient public service.

“Kailangan kasi nating maging child-friendly. Marami pa rin kasing mga nanay [at] tatay na nagdadala ng mga anak nila, especially yung mga special children. So wala silang mapag-iwanan habang nagtatrabaho sila, so para merong magbabantay sa mga babies nila,” Dr. Mateo expressed when asked about the importance of establishing the area.