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CASS' Ragandang presents ‘ayom-ayom’ research at Deakin University, Australia 

May 26 2024

CASS - Political Science Associate Professor Primitivo III Cabanes Ragandang presented his research at the Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia, and was welcomed by the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation on May 15, 2024. 

His presentation highlighted the making of political orders, focusing on Ragandang's conceptualization of the ayom-ayomic political order and its relevance in contemporary contexts, particularly in regions marred by protracted conflict.

Ragandang's research centers on the role of memory in sustaining political orders, drawing from the Visayan concept of 'ayom-ayom,' which encapsulates the idea of making use of what is available. Ragandang emphasized the role of memory in rebuilding and maintaining political structures in areas devastated by prolonged conflicts, with a specific focus on the Bangsamoro in Muslim Mindanao. The presentation provided fresh insights into the complex dynamics of post-conflict societies. 

This research goes beyond mere academic inquiry. It has implications for policy formulation and intervention strategies. By centering the voices and experiences of marginalized communities, Ragandang’s work advocates for a more inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to conflict resolution. In doing so, the research challenges conventional paradigms and calls for a reimagining of political order grounded in memory and resilience.

In a related endeavor, Deakin University professors Anthony Ware, Greg Barton, and Leanne Kelly embarked on a research expedition to Mindanao in March 2024. Their research centered on the development responses against hateful and violent extremism, in collaboration with Plan International. This project saw them partnering with local scholars, including Professor Ragandang and Professor Yasmira Moner from the Political Science Department of Ãå±±½ûµØ-Iligan, to gain deeper insights into the nature of extremism and effective countermeasures.

Building on this collaboration, Ragandang is currently spearheading an edited book that synthesizes the findings and recommendations stemming from this initiative. The book promises to be a valuable resource for policymakers, academics, and practitioners working in the fields of development studies, conflict resolution, and extremism prevention.

 - Contributed News -

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