About AIA

In his Inaugural Address in June 2011, Coming Together to Move Forward, then incoming University President, Fr. Joel E. Tabora SJ proposed that Ateneo de Davao University become the center of anthropological instruction and research in Mindanao. To that end, he approved the creation of the Ateneo de Davao University Institute of Anthropology (AIA) in November 2011. The AIA is becoming a hub for anthropological scholarship that will enrich public understanding of the diverse and evolving cultures of Mindanao. Since 2012, when it became fully operational, it has produced 12 major academic and policy studies; 6 of which were funded by the University Research Council, and 6 commissioned by outside organizations. The institute’s research engagements also provide opportunities for partnership with local communities in addressing locally-relevant development issues. Finally, the institute promotes anthropological knowledge through its core graduate degree program, and a number of undergraduate and graduate courses. The graduate degree program, which awards a Master of Arts in Anthropology degree, administers the formation and training of critical thinkers who can apply anthropological analysis and methods in approaching community or development issues and problems, and thus contribute to the growth of Mindanao and its peoples.