Binay pushes more in-person classes

At this point, the higher education sector can open its in-person classes in all programs instead of only engineering and medical courses

Senator Nancy Binay yesterday pushed for the inclusion of more tertiary degree programs in the resumption of limited face-to-face classes by January next year.

In a radio interview, Binay appealed to the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) to expand the coverage of physical classes, citing the eligibility of college students for Covid-19 vaccines, as well as the further loosening of restrictions in the country.

“Some students in the tertiary are aged 18 years old and above. They’re supposed to be vaccinated and are easier to teach about the protocols in schools unlike those who are in basic education,” Binay said.

“At this point, the higher education sector can open its in-person classes in all programs instead of only engineering and medical courses. Arcades and cinemas have already resumed operations. Why should we not do the same for schools?” she added.

CHEd is currently prioritizing the reopening of in-person classes in selected programs needing hands-on experience, such as medical allied courses, engineering and technology programs, hospitality or hotel and restaurant management, tourism or travel management, marine engineering and marine transportation.

However, CHEd chairperson Prospero de Vera last week said his agency is studying the possibility of holding physical classes for all programs in low-risk areas in the country by 2022.

Numerous factors, however, are still being studied, including the level of risk, the vaccination rate of students and faculty members, and the inoculation of the general population in the said areas.

De Vera added that an experts’ group is currently drafting guidelines that would ensure public safety during the reopening of classes.

Binay expressed a similar call, saying that if the commission cannot open in-person classes for all, then it can add more degree programs to their list.

“I just hope that by January more programs will hold physical classes. If not all, then add courses, especially in areas with low to zero Covid cases. We can start there,” she said.

“Still, we’re not saying that this should be mandatory. Going back to school is voluntary, but at least it would give parents and students the option if they want to attend physical classes,” she added.

The lawmaker also reminded the commission to assure that it will not discriminate against unvaccinated students in crafting policies for the safe resumption of physical classes amid the low supply of coronavirus jabs in the country.

While 71 percent of faculty members and education personnel have been vaccinated nationwide, data from the commission showed that only 27 percent of students in the country have been inoculated.

CHEd is pushing for vaccination for students, but it remains outside the requirement of those who will attend limited physical classes.