Manila, Philippines – Public schools across the country face a potential overcrowding crisis with thousands of senior high school (SHS) students set to return after the end of SHS programs at state universities and colleges (SUCs).
Teacher groups warn that the influx could worsen the existing classroom shortage, estimated at 165,000 rooms by the Department of Education (DepEd). They urge DepEd to prioritize placing displaced students near their homes to minimize disruption.
Around 160 SUCs and LUCs previously offered SHS as a temporary measure during the K-12 transition. However, with the transition complete, these institutions are mandated to stop enrolling SHS students starting next school year.
This means displaced students will return to public schools, potentially exceeding classroom capacity and adding strain to resources. Education groups call for careful planning and resource allocation to ensure quality education amidst the influx.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 15, 2023
