CHR commends Congress initiative to strengthen HEIs

THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) applauded Congress for taking proactive steps to improve the functionality of the country’s public and private higher education institutions (HEIs), it said in a statement.

Citing a report, it said, “House Bill (HB) 9982 defines the supervisory and regulatory role of the government, particularly by the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) in all public and private higher education while revitalizing academic freedom. It also defines the criteria for the establishment of HEIs and sets the minimum requirements for their course offerings. It also grants incentives to all HEIs that consistently demonstrate and adhere to standards of excellence.”

“Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and Article 14 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution affirm the right to quality education for everyone. By strengthening HEIs, we align with these provisions to enhance the accessibility and quality of higher education opportunities for all individuals in the country,” CHR said.

“This measure also acknowledges the significance of intellectual autonomy in educational institutions and the principles of academic freedom. Revitalizing academic freedom allows HEIs to operate independently and honorably, which is required for the pursuit of free and critical thinking,” it added.

“Furthermore, HB 9982 contributes to ensuring equal access to education and reduces the risk of discrimination based on the quality, location, or rank of educational institutions. Overall, we shall strive to attain quality and excellent education regardless if it is a private or a state-funded HEIs,” it continued.

“The commission is hopeful that this bill will address not just the practical aspects of strengthening HEIs but also align its curriculum with the fundamental principles of human rights, thereby reflecting a commitment to promoting educational advancement and ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals in the country,” CHR said.