The Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) Chairman, J. Prospero de Vera III, addressed concerns regarding the recent memorandum on the discontinuation of senior high school (SHS) in state universities and colleges (SUCs). In a press briefing, de Vera emphasized that the decision was neither abrupt nor arbitrary.
The memorandum, dated December 18, 2023, directed the heads of SUCs to bring the discontinuation of SHS to their respective boards of regents (BoR) or boards of trustees (BoT). De Vera clarified that the memo was not abrupt because it did not displace any students, as the current academic year was already ongoing.
Furthermore, de Vera highlighted that the closing down of SHS in public universities had been an ongoing process for approximately three years. Many SUCs had already stopped offering SHS programs as early as three years ago. This gradual transition allowed for a smooth adjustment period.
The decision to discontinue SHS in SUCs and local universities and colleges (LUCs) was based on the excess capacity in these institutions when the senior high program was implemented. Freshman classes in SUCs and LUCs were smaller, as some students were still in senior high school. However, de Vera pointed out that this transition period had come to an end, as enrollment in SUCs and LUCs had increased.
De Vera emphasized that the primary mandate of SUCs and LUCs is to provide post-secondary education. Republic Act 10533, also known as the “Enhanced Basic Education Act,” clearly states that the K to 12 program falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Education (DepEd). In line with this, CHEd has been issuing advisories to SUCs and LUCs for several years.
Regarding the approximately 17,000 SHS students who may be affected by the discontinuation, de Vera assured that CHEd would track them down to determine if their access to education would be negatively impacted. The agency is already in discussion with select SUC and LUC presidents and education stakeholders to explore viable SHS options for the upcoming academic year and beyond.
De Vera emphasized that CHEd is actively monitoring the situation on the ground and is prepared to collaborate with DepEd and other educational stakeholders to address any recognized problems in accommodating senior high school students. The goal is to ensure that no student is left behind for the academic year 2024-2025.
In conclusion, the discontinuation of senior high school in SUCs and LUCs is part of a planned transition that has been in progress for several years. CHEd’s decision is based on the mandate of these institutions to provide post-secondary education and aligns with the jurisdiction of DepEd over the K to 12 program. Efforts are underway to explore alternative options for affected students, ensuring that their access to education remains a top priority.
Source: The Manila Times
