The Notre Dame of Jolo College (NDJC) is an academic institution in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) located in the province of Sulu, in the town of Jolo. It was founded by the Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) on June 14, 1954. From the time of its inception, the Notre Dame has been a unique institution. It is owned and managed by a Catholic religious congregation, yet it serves a predominantly Muslim populace. Its Community Extension Service and Peace Center are probably the College’s best features, for these cater to the needs of the minority, the Badjaos, as well as the majority, the Tausug community.
The formation of the NDJC-Peace Center was a response to the challenge of the International Conference on the Culture of Peace held in Manila in November of 1995 sponsored by the UNESCO. It was formally launched on December 10, 1998 in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of United Nations Declaration of Human Rights Day. With this peace program, it is hoped that a culture of peace will be created in the hearts of the people.
The Notre Dame of Jolo College – Peace Center implements various peace advocacy work, aiming to create a culture of peace involving Peace Associates, Peace Animators, Youth Leaders and local community leaders. It helps shape a consciousness for peace and dialogue that has gained momentum in different levels of actions in the form of awareness, interpersonal solidarity and the appreciation of diversity, differences, and mutual respect in the province of Sulu.
As a result of its dedication to serving communities, the group has evolved as a potent force in the implementation of peace activities. It is a collaboration of peace volunteers and animators coming from various youth organisations, schools and communities, responding to the call of the time for peace and development.
