Mindanao State University–General Santos is hosting a Human Rights Forum today, bringing together scholars from Japanese universities and members of the MSU–GenSan academic community for discussions on human rights discourse and lived realities in Southeast Asia.

The visit formally begins with a courtesy call at the Office of the Chancellor, where the Japanese guests are welcomed by Chancellor Atty. Shidik T. Abantas, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Dr. Mishell D. Lawas, Dean Mario Aguja of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities (CSSH), along with CSSH officials and faculty members. Tokens of appreciation are presented to the visiting scholars in recognition of the academic partnership and shared commitment to human rights advocacy.

Following the courtesy call, the guests proceed to the MSU–GenSan Audio-Visual Room at the University Library, where the forum is being attended by CSSH students and faculty members.

The forum features two distinguished speakers from Japan. Dr. Masao Imamura of Yamagata University opens the discussion with his lecture, “Is the Age of Human Rights Over?”, examining contemporary challenges to human rights frameworks in a rapidly changing global landscape. This is followed by Dr. Masako Ishii of Rikkyo University, who discusses “Justice for Human Rights Violations and the Lived Experiences of Victims,” highlighting the human dimension of rights violations and the pursuit of justice.

The forum highlights MSU–GenSan’s continuing commitment to international collaboration and the promotion of human rights education, providing students and faculty with a platform to engage critically with regional and global issues.