Empowering Young Voters: PSS, IPIL Join Forces in Inspiring Change

In a remarkable display of unity and civic engagement, the Political Science Society (PSS) at Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), in collaboration with the Institute for Policy Innovation and Leadership (IPIL), concluded a week-long project dedicated to empowering young voters. The culminating event, a panel discussion, unfolded at the College of Health Sciences Function Hall on the 4th floor, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of students from diverse colleges and year levels.

Mark Shayvin Serrano, the Prime Minister of the Political Science Society, set the tone for the event in his opening remarks, underlining the pivotal role of young voters in shaping the future of society. He emphasized the significance of their participation and the responsibility they bear in the democratic process.

The panel discussion featured distinguished guests, including Asst. Prof. Ian Embradura from the Department of Philosophy and Humanities, Asst. Prof. Fitzgerald Torralba from the Department of Sociology, and Mr. John Leandro Reyes from the Department of History. Each panelist contributed valuable insights on the roles and challenges faced by young voters in shaping and reshaping society. The discussion was masterfully moderated by John Aldyson Ramirez, a senior Political Science student, in a forum-style question-and-answer format.

During the engaging discourse, the panelists shed light on various aspects of youth participation, including its importance, the issues surrounding the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) and barangay officials, and how young voters can effectively address these challenges. They emphasized the potential of the youth to enact positive change and the critical role they play in local governance.

The panel discussion was followed by an open forum, where students had the opportunity to ask thought-provoking questions. These inquiries delved into citizen engagement in the pursuit of addressing societal issues, especially through local elections. The interactive exchange of ideas and information further enriched the understanding of the importance of young voters' involvement.

The project holds particular significance due to the upcoming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections scheduled for October 30, 2023. It aims to inspire critical thinking and informed decision-making among young voters, reinforcing the belief that their voices and votes can be powerful tools for positive change.

The collaboration between the Political Science Society and the Institute for Policy Innovation and Leadership demonstrates a commitment to fostering an informed and engaged youth population, laying the groundwork for a more vibrant and participatory democratic society. As the election date approaches, the message is clear: the youth's voices will be heard, and they are poised to be a driving force in reshaping their communities and their nation.

About the Author

Maan Deuda

Maan Deuda is a second year BA Political Science student at Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT). She first joined the world of journalism during her junior high school at La Salle Academy - Iligan as a news writer from 2016-2018 which helped her learn and improve her craft. Also, Maan is a former 1st year representative of the Political Science Society, and currently a news writer for CASSayuran - the official publication of the College of Arts and Social Sciences of MSU-IIT.