For med-related courses: CHED, DOH give nod to face-to-face classes

CEBU, Philippines —  Universities and Colleges are now allowed to conduct face-to-face classes for selected courses, following issuance of guidelines by Commission of Higher Education (CHED-7) and Department of Health (DOH-7).

CHED-7 regional director Maximo Aljibe announced yesterday during the Regional Development Council (RDC) first quarter full council, that universities and colleges can now submit their applications to CHED regional office for approval of gradual physical class re-opening, specifically for medical related courses.

However, the schools have to comply with a number of requirements duly stipulated in the newly approved guidelines.

Aljibe however clarified that the gradual re-opening of face-to-face classes is not mandatory, but schools that may want to conduct physical classes shall fall into the identified priority courses like medicine and medical allied courses, such as medical technology, midwifery, nursing, physical therapy and public health.

In Cebu, CHED identified 41 programs of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) that may be given permit for limited face-to-face classes. Bohol has nine, 12 in Negros Oriental and one in Siquijor.

So far, there are three schools in Cebu that are already given permit for physical classes by CHED-7. These are the University of Cebu (UC-Mandaue), Southwestern University-Phinma and Velez College.

Aside from DOH, CHED is also working closely with local government units (LGUs), and IATF.

Approved permit for limited face-to-face classes is only valid for one school year.

Aljibe clarified that permits will only be given to schools that offer medical related courses, not for basic education programs.

 Upon approval, Aljibe said schools should be willing to assume the responsibilities based on their capability to comply with health and safety protocols, to retrofit their facilities and to get support from stakeholders.