THE ATENEO de Manila University has approved the full implementation of a co-education scheme, a milestone decision that will allow female students access to its basic education schools.

A memorandum signed by ADMU President Fr. Roberto Yap said the Ateneo’s Board of Trustees on Feb. 4 allowed the implementation of the co-ed scheme with preparations beginning in SY 2023-2024.

The university will start accepting female students in Kinder, Grade and Grade 7 in SY 2024-2025.

“This is in response to our goal in the Lux-in-Domino Strategic Plan: Strategic targeted growth in the university’s student population to increase access to and impact of the Ateneo de Manila education; specifically the strategy to increase student diversity by granting female students access to the Ateneo de Manila basic education schools,” the memo read.

Yap said that the Vice President for Basic Education has been tasked to put together the communication plan, facilities, and infrastructure requirements, as well as the academic, formation, and capability development aspects of the co-ed scheme.

The decision was the conclusion of a study held by a team composed of Fr. Joaquin Jose Mari C. Sumpaico III, SJ (Team Lead); Dr. Jaime Jose G. Nicdao (Co-team Lead); Dr. Maria Regina M. Hechanova; Dr. Helen U. Amante; Maria Rosario R. Arespacochaga; Rosanna M. Borja; and Paula M. Quodala.

“We thank them for their dedication and generosity in preparing a thorough and comprehensive work. I now enjoin the community to pray for the smooth implementation of a full co-education in the Basic Education,” Yap said.