In the Philippines, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) plays a crucial role in the management and development of tertiary education. It is responsible for formulating and implementing policies that pertain to higher education in the country.What is the Meaning of CHED – Commission on Higher Education
One of CHED’s primary objectives is to enhance the quality of education received by students across all levels. They strive to improve the curriculum, teaching methodologies, and overall educational experience in higher education institutions. By doing so, CHED aims to produce competent and globally competitive graduates.
In addition to its regulatory functions, CHED also provides scholarships to deserving students pursuing various courses. These scholarships aim to support financially challenged students and recognize academic excellence. Eligible students can apply for a CHED scholarship through the agency’s website. The application process typically involves submitting the required documents and fulfilling certain criteria set by CHED.
Upon the completion of the selection process, CHED will notify the applicants who have been chosen as grantees. Being awarded a CHED scholarship not only assists students in meeting the financial requirements of their education but also serves as a recognition of their hard work and dedication to their studies.
In summary, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines is responsible for managing and formulating policies related to tertiary education. They strive to enhance the quality of education for students and offer scholarships to eligible individuals. Applying for a CHED scholarship can be done through their website, and successful applicants will be notified of their selection as grantees.
Overview
The government holds the belief that every student who completes their secondary education should pursue and successfully complete a college degree. In fact, certain fields of study are given priority by the government, and they offer educational assistance programs specifically for college students.
One of the primary organizations responsible for this initiative is the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), which was established in 1994 under the Higher Education Act. CHED operates as an agency affiliated with the Office of the President and is headed by a Chairperson and four Commissioners, each serving a four-year term. The commission works collaboratively to formulate plans, policies, and strategies for higher education and the management of CHED.
What is the meaning of CHED?
CHED is an acronym for Commission on Higher Education.
What is CHED?
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is the principal authority governing the higher education system in the Philippines. Established in 1994 under the Higher Education Act, CHED collaborates with various stakeholders in the field of higher education to enhance the nation’s human capital and innovation capacity. Its goal is to develop a responsible Filipino citizenry that actively contributes to the global community.
Purpose of CHED
The establishment of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) was a key component of the comprehensive education reforms initiated by the Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM) in 1992. While the Department of Education (DepEd) oversees basic education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is responsible for technical-vocational and middle-level education, the CHED specifically focuses on tertiary and graduate education.
The main objectives of CHED are as follows:
- Foster a more coordinated and integrated higher education system: CHED aims to bring together various institutions and stakeholders in higher education to promote collaboration, synergy, and harmonization of efforts. By working together, the institutions can collectively enhance the quality and relevance of higher education in the country.
- Enhance the effectiveness of higher education policy formulation and implementation: CHED is tasked with formulating and implementing policies that govern higher education institutions. By ensuring that these policies are well-designed and effectively implemented, CHED seeks to improve the overall quality and efficiency of higher education in the country.
- Provide relevant direction in governance: CHED plays a crucial role in providing guidance and direction to higher education institutions. By setting standards, regulations, and guidelines, CHED helps ensure that the governance of these institutions is in line with national development goals and educational objectives.
- Safeguard academic freedom: CHED recognizes the importance of academic freedom, which is guaranteed by the Constitution. It strives to create an environment where students can exercise their right to academic freedom, enabling them to engage in critical thinking, research, and intellectual exploration without undue interference.
In summary, the CHED was established to develop a comprehensive, robust, and integrated higher education system in the Philippines. Through its various functions and objectives, CHED aims to enhance the quality, relevance, and governance of tertiary and graduate education while upholding the principles of academic freedom.
Functions and Responsibilities
CHED, the Commission on Higher Education, plays a vital role in providing quality education to the Filipino people. Similar to other government agencies, CHED has numerous functions and responsibilities. These include:
- Promoting relevant and high-quality higher education: CHED aims to ensure that the higher education institutions and programs in the Philippines meet global standards. They work towards enhancing the quality of education provided to students.
- Developing graduates and professionals with global competitiveness: CHED strives to produce highly skilled graduates and professionals who are recognized in their respective fields and can compete on an international level. They support initiatives that enable students to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills.
- Increasing access to quality higher education: CHED is committed to making quality higher education available to individuals who aspire for it, especially those who may face financial constraints. They work on programs and policies that promote inclusivity and equal opportunities for education.
- Safeguarding academic independence: CHED ensures that academic institutions maintain their autonomy and intellectual freedom. This allows for the expansion of knowledge, advancement of research, development of high-level education, responsible leadership, and preservation of historical and cultural heritage.
- Upholding moral ascendancy and promoting transparency: CHED is dedicated to eliminating corrupt activities within the higher education sector. They strive to institutionalize transparency and accountability, promoting ethical practices and moral values.
By fulfilling these functions and responsibilities, CHED contributes to the overall development and progress of the Philippine education system, as well as the advancement of the Filipino people.
List of Programs under CHED
If you’re wondering about the programs and services offered by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), you may find the following project details helpful:
- Cash Grant to Medical Students Enrolled in State Universities and Colleges (CGMS-SUCs): The CHED, in collaboration with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), has implemented the Cash Grants to Medical Students Enrolled in State Universities and Colleges (CGMS-SUCs) program. Its primary objective is to provide financial assistance and tuition fee subsidies to medical students enrolled in selected State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) offering the Doctor of Medicine program.
Under this program, eligible students receive a 100% tuition fee subsidy based on their actual tuition fee. However, beneficiaries are allowed to apply for only one government financial assistance program for their tuition fees.
Currently, there are eight SUCs in the country that offer a 100% tuition fee discount to medical students.
It’s important to note that the information provided here is based on the knowledge available up until September 2021. It’s always a good idea to visit the official website of CHED or contact them directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information about their programs and services.
2. Quality Assurance Projects
Certainly! In response to the increasing concern about the quality of programs and services offered by higher education institutions, considering factors such as global competitiveness, internationalization, and ASEAN integration, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has placed significant importance on quality assurance in the Philippine higher education sector. The CHED has developed various quality assurance tools that higher education institutions (HEIs) can utilize to enhance their internal quality assurance systems.
Furthermore, the CHED has established platforms where HEIs can demonstrate their excellence both at the institutional and program levels. These platforms aim to ensure that quality assurance and enhancement are effectively implemented throughout the Philippine higher education system.
By emphasizing quality assurance, the CHED intends to address the growing concerns regarding the standards and effectiveness of higher education programs and services. The objective is to enhance the overall quality of education in the Philippines, aligning it with international benchmarks and promoting competitiveness within the ASEAN region.
3. Centers of Excellence and Centers of Development (CEOs/CODs)
Section 8 (f) of the Republic Act 7722, commonly referred to as the “Higher Education Act,” establishes the Center of Excellence program.
According to the law, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is mandated to identify, support, and establish potential centers of excellence in areas of study where they are required. This initiative aims to promote exceptional academic standards, contribute to the progress of the nation, and facilitate national growth.
The program is designed to enhance the quality of higher education institutions (HEIs) by focusing on improving their teaching methods, research capabilities, and service initiatives. These endeavors not only aim to elevate the academic standards of the HEIs but also to contribute to nation-building and overall development.
4. Faculty Development Program (FacDev)
The Faculty Development Program (FDP) plays a crucial role in establishing a strong foundation for an excellent educational system. Over the years, faculty development has consistently been recognized as a significant priority in various surveys. If we fail to invest in developing a talented pool of professionals within our academic institutions, our country will be at a disadvantage compared to neighboring countries that currently offer state-of-the-art programs and technologies. By cultivating this critical mass of skilled educators, we can effectively train and prepare students for meaningful and rewarding employment opportunities in the global market. It is essential for more than half of the faculty members in higher education institutions (HEIs) to enhance their skills and competencies in order to elevate the quality of teaching within our HEIs.
5. Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation (ETEEAP)
The Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) is a comprehensive assessment program in the tertiary education sector. It aims to acknowledge, accredit, and assign equivalencies to the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values acquired through relevant work experience. This program is implemented by authorized higher education institutions, which grant the corresponding college degree to eligible individuals.
6. Foreign Scholarship and Training Programs (FSTP)
The Foreign Scholarships and Training Programs (FSTP) aim to provide opportunities for professional development and skills enhancement to officials and employees of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), as well as individuals from other organizations. These programs offer various scholarship opportunities that are accessible to multiple government agencies and select non-governmental organizations. The primary goal is to enhance the competencies of employees by supporting their participation in specialized courses.
Nominees for these scholarship programs are chosen based on their exceptional talent and expertise in the relevant field of study. This includes employees from national agencies and local government units who have demonstrated notable skills and proficiency related to the available courses.
By offering these scholarships and training programs, the FSTP seeks to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute effectively in their respective roles and advance their professional growth.
7. National Agriculture and Fisheries Education System (NAFES)
Section 66 of Republic Act (RA) No. 8435, also known as the “Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act (AFMA) of 1997,” required the collaboration between the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Department of Agriculture (DA), and other government agencies to establish the National Agriculture and Fisheries Education System (NAFES) during the presidency of Fidel V. Ramos.
NAFES was established with the objective of supporting, establishing, maintaining, and developing a comprehensive and integrated system for agriculture and fisheries education (AFE). Its primary aim was to modernize and rationalize AFE from elementary to tertiary levels, harmonize the implementation of academic programs, enhance the quality of education, ensure sustainability, and promote global competitiveness across all levels of AFE.
Brief History of CHED
Here’s a good insight into the history of CHED, what it does, and how it helps Filipino students in the Philippine
Frequently Asked Questions
Please check out these common questions and answers about the CHED agency:
1. What is the monthly stipend for CHED students?
“A full scholar will receive Php 35,000 per semester, whereas other scholars with fifty percent coverage will receive Php 17,000 per semester.”
2. The course that I wish to take is not on the priority course list. What should I do?
If your chosen course is included in CHED’s priority courses, it would increase your chances of getting approved. However, if it’s not, you may want to explore other scholarship options.
3. I did not complete my college education. Now I wish to continue my studies as a CHED scholar. Is that legal?
Yes, CHED will accept your application if you meet all of the other requirements and submit all of the documents you need for qualification and verification.
4. Who can apply for a CHED scholarship?
The CHED Scholarship Programs aim to provide opportunities for capable and deserving Filipino students, with a focus on specific groups such as Underprivileged and Homeless Citizens as defined by Republic Act (RA) No. 7279, and Persons with Disability (PWDs) as defined by Republic Act (RA) No.
These scholarships are available to Filipino citizens who are currently enrolled in any college or university program, whether it is a public or private institution, local or abroad. The only requirement for applying to the CHED Scholarship is that the applicants must be Filipino citizens.
The CHED Scholarship Programs serve as a means to support and empower Filipino students in their pursuit of higher education. By providing financial assistance and other benefits, these programs aim to ensure that deserving individuals have the opportunity to access quality education and contribute to the development of the nation.
5. What are the courses prioritized by CHED?
Courses under these categories are more favorable for CHED scholarships: Science and Mathematics, Engineering and Technology, Architecture, Information Technology Education, Business and Management, Health Profession Education, Maritime Education, and Social Sciences.
6. Do we still need to apply for scholarships at CHED Regional Offices?
“No. Students interested in applying for the CHED Scholarship Program should visit https://ched.gov.ph/stufaps/.”
7. When and how will we find out if we are eligible to be a grantee?
Upon completion of the application ranking process, you will receive either a Notice of Award or a text message from CHEDRO VIII. This communication will inform you about the outcome of your application. Thank you for using English for our correspondence.
Summary
“The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) not only oversees and creates new policies for tertiary education in the Philippines but also strives to improve the quality of education provided to students. CHED offers scholarships for various courses, covering a wide range of fields. Rest assured that your chosen course may fall under one of these categories, as nearly every field is included. Successful applicants will be granted either a full or half scholarship per semester.”
Please note that the paraphrased version may not perfectly capture the original tone or style of the text, but it conveys the same information in a different form.
