In the dynamic landscape of Philippine education, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) stands as a pillar, steering the course of higher learning institutions towards excellence and relevance. This article will give you an idea of CHED and how it works with the government by exploring its inception, key functions, impactful programs, and future initiatives to transform the higher education sector.
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What is the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
Established in 1994 through Republic Act 7722, CHED is the government agency tasked with overseeing and coordinating the development of higher education institutions in the Philippines. Functioning under the Department of Education, CHED operates as the primary regulatory body, ensuring the quality and accessibility of tertiary education across the Philippines.
Purpose and Functions
CHED is mainly responsible for formulating policies, standards, and guidelines that govern higher education institutions. These regulations cover curriculum development, program accreditation, faculty qualifications, and institutional governance. By setting benchmarks for quality standards, CHED contributes to enhancing the education environment which prepares students for the challenges of the globalized world.
Furthermore, CHED serves as a bridge between the government and tertiary institutions, advocating for the interests of both. Through its regulatory functions, the agency promotes transparency, accountability, and innovation within the higher education sector, producing an environment conducive to learning and research.
- Formulation of Policies and Standards – CHED is responsible for formulating policies, plans, and programs to ensure the quality and relevance of higher education in the Philippines. This includes the development and maintenance of standards for academic programs, faculty qualifications, and institutional quality.
- Program Development and Enhancement – This agency is involved in the development and enhancement of higher education programs to meet the needs of the country. This includes the creation of new academic programs, updating existing curricula, and aligning educational offerings with industry demands.
- Quality Assurance – CHED is tasked with ensuring the quality of higher education institutions (HEIs) and their programs. This involves the establishment of criteria for accreditation, monitoring compliance with standards, and recognizing Centers of Excellence (COEs) and Centers of Development (CODs) in various disciplines.
- Licensing and Regulation – The Commission on Higher Education is responsible for the licensing and regulation of higher education institutions. This includes the issuance of permits for the establishment of new HEIs, as well as monitoring and evaluating their operations to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
- Research and Development – It supports research and development activities in higher education. This involves promoting a culture of research in HEIs, funding research projects, and encouraging collaboration between academic institutions and industry.
- Faculty and Staff Development – CHED is involved in initiatives to enhance the capabilities of faculty and staff in higher education institutions. This includes providing scholarships, grants, and training programs to improve teaching, research, and administrative skills.
- Student Financial Assistance – CHED administers scholarship and financial assistance programs to support students in pursuing higher education. This includes grants for tuition, miscellaneous fees, and other educational expenses for eligible students.
- Internationalization of Higher Education – This government agency promotes the internationalization of higher education by facilitating partnerships between Philippine HEIs and foreign institutions. This includes encouraging student and faculty exchanges, collaborative research, and other forms of international cooperation.
Programs and Project Implementations
CHED implements bunches of programs designed to enhance the quality of education and address the evolving needs of students and institutions:
K to 12 Transition Program
CHED has been actively involved in implementing the K to 12 program, which aims to enhance the country’s basic education system by adding two more years to the curriculum. This transition also involves aligning higher education programs with the K to 12 framework.
Strengthening Higher Education Through CMOs
This agency issues various Commission Memorandum Orders (CMOs) to set standards and guidelines for higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines. These cover curriculum development, program standards, and other aspects to ensure the quality of education.
Faculty Development Programs
It has implemented programs to enhance the skills and qualifications of faculty members in HEIs. This includes scholarships, training, and development initiatives to improve teaching and research capabilities.
Quality Assurance Programs
The government agency is also committed to ensuring the quality of higher education in the Philippines. It has implemented a series of quality assurance programs, including the creation of Centers of Development (COD) and Centers of Excellence (COE) in various disciplines.
Higher
Education Development Fund (HEDF)
CHED manages the HEDF, which provides financial assistance to HEIs for the development of academic programs, research projects, and infrastructure improvements.
CHED Scholarship Programs
CHED offers various scholarship programs to support students in pursuing higher education. These programs aim to provide financial assistance to academically qualified but financially disadvantaged students.
Internationalization of Higher Education
CHED has been promoting the internationalization of higher education by encouraging partnerships between Philippine HEIs and foreign institutions. This includes initiatives to enhance research collaboration and student exchange programs.
Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education (UAQTEA) Act
While not a project initiated by CHED, the UAQTEA Act is landmark legislation in the Philippines that aims to provide free tuition and other miscellaneous fees for students in state universities and colleges (SUCs) and local universities and colleges (LUCs)
Video: CHED, Marina to release new maritime education curriculum | New Day
The Commission on Higher Education and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) will shortly launch a new maritime curriculum by President Bongbong Marcos’ direction. Following the European Union’s continued recognition of Filipino seafarers’ certifications, the curriculum was changed for a better plan.
The Philippines is known for having a significant number of seafarers, and the maritime industry plays a crucial role in the country’s economy. If the goal is to prepare students for careers in the maritime sector, a specialized curriculum is essential.
Summary
Overall, the CHEDplays a huge role in shaping the landscape of tertiary education in the Philippines. From its regulatory functions to its innovative programs and future-focused initiatives, CHED stands as a bridge of progress, guiding the nation toward educational excellence.
As students navigate the complexities of the modern world, the commitment of CHED to quality, accessibility, and adaptability ensures that higher education in the Philippines remains prompt for individual growth and national development.