Deep within Manila stands the Asian Social Institute. It is more than just a school. It’s a crucible of social change.
The Asian Social Institute was founded in 1962. Rev. Dr. Francis Senden, a Dutch Catholic Missionary, had a vision. He wanted to create a place where graduate students could understand social realities. He wanted them to act on these realities in a way that facilitates change.
ASI started with limited resources. It began with the Graduate School of Economics and Sociology. The academic standard was high. The Institute also instilled socially-oriented values. ASI offered courses in Social Philosophy and Christian Social Teachings. It established social action arms to expose students to real-world socio-economic realities.
In 1963, the Research Unit was added. It became a significant part of ASI’s learning and social action. In 1965, the Family Center of the Asian Social Institute was started. It focused on family life education. The goal was to guide Filipinos toward modernization ideals. These ideals centered on human and people-centered social development.
The Asian Social Institute also has a lighter side. The story of ASI is the story of Dr. Mina Ramirez. She is the female successor of Rev. Fr. Francis Senden. Dr. Sixto K. Roxas, an advocate of Eco-System Based Sustainable Organizing and Management, stressed this point in one of her public lectures.
Over the years, ASI has evolved. New sections and programs were added. These include the Social Work Section, the ASI Communications Center and ASI Senden Home. The Urban Community Development Desk and the Tent School were also established.
The Asian Social Institute offers various programs. These include Sociology and a Bachelor of Sociology. The Institute also offers an International Diploma Course in Community Development. This course is designed for social development practitioners and community extension managers.
ASI’s vision is clear. It aspires to be an Asian Social Science Graduate School. It aims for Transformative Praxis towards Integrity of Creation, Justice and Peace.
The Asian Social Institute remains committed to its mission. It strives to create a movement of thought, inquiry and action. This movement serves Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation. It is a beacon of hope. It builds campfires of hope for the country and the world. It directs its work towards integrity, justice and peace. The Asian Social Institute stands as a testament to the power of education. It highlights its role in creating a more just and equitable world.