The Classroom as Sanctuary: Prof. Lorelie Paloma Explores How Education Can Prevent Hate Speech

In an era where digital platforms amplify both voices and violence, the role of educators has never been more vital. Prof. Lorelie J. Paloma of the Southern Leyte State University – Main Campus recently authored a reflective research article titled “The Role of Education in Preventing Hate Speech and Promoting Media Literacy,” inspired by her participation in the UNESCO GCED course Preventing Hate Speech: The Role of Media Literacy.

Her work reframes education not simply as academic instruction, but as a humanizing mission that shapes empathy, moral judgment, and civic responsibility. She argues that the fight against hate speech is not just about policing words; it is about awakening consciousness.

Central to her study is the belief that media literacy must go beyond technical skills. It requires nurturing learners who can analyze, question, and engage ethically in digital spaces. Through critical discourse, responsible verification, and a deeper understanding of how media influences behavior, education becomes a shield against misinformation and a bridge toward dialogue.

Prof. Paloma concludes that when teachers model compassion, guide ethical communication, and integrate peace education into their practice, they become catalysts for social healing.

Her message is clear: “Education is most powerful when it forms minds that think critically, hearts that feel deeply, and spirits that act responsibly.”

In a world fractured by hostility, the classroom remains a powerful space of transformation, and educators are its stewards of peace.