Lawmaker Calls on LGUs to Support Students in Online Learning Amid Oil Crisis
Local government units (LGUs) across the nation are being urged to step up and provide critical assistance to college students who are struggling to meet their academic requirements due to limited access to digital resources. This appeal comes in response to the Commission on Higher Education's recent decision to allow higher education institutions to transition fully to online classes, a move prompted by the ongoing oil crisis stemming from escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Return to Pandemic-Era Learning Conditions
Solid North Party-list Representative Ching Bernos issued the call, highlighting that the current situation mirrors the learning conditions experienced during the pandemic, which starkly revealed persistent gaps in educational access. In a formal statement, Bernos expressed concern over the reversion to what she termed 'pandemic mode' with the shift to online classes. 'Sadly, due to the oil crisis we seem to have reverted to pandemic mode with the shift to online classes. But that shouldn't mean that inequities and gaps that were observed during the pandemic should continue to exist,' Bernos emphasized.
She further stressed the importance of proactive measures, adding, 'In this regard, I hope that our LGUs can also provide support to students who lack resources to ensure that they are not left behind in their studies. This national crisis must not become an education crisis.' Bernos pointed out that local governments played a pivotal role during the pandemic by helping students adapt to remote learning, and she believes they can once again be instrumental in mitigating educational disruptions.
Revisiting Effective Pandemic Interventions
Bernos cited several successful interventions from the pandemic era that LGUs could replicate or enhance to support students during this new crisis. These measures include:
- Establishment of free Wi-Fi hubs in public areas to improve internet connectivity.
- Implementation of internet voucher systems and subsidies to reduce financial burdens on students.
- Distribution of essential devices such as tablets, cellphones, and laptops to those in need.
According to Bernos, these initiatives significantly eased the burden on students and enhanced access to online education, demonstrating the potential for local action to bridge digital divides. 'I believe that once again, our LGUs can be instrumental in ensuring that the educational crisis we are facing does not deepen further,' she asserted.
Broader Support for Commuters
In addition to focusing on educational support, Bernos also urged local governments to explore service contracting agreements in public transport. This measure aims to benefit commuters who are facing increased challenges due to the oil crisis, ensuring that transportation remains accessible and affordable for students and the general public alike. By addressing both digital and mobility issues, LGUs can play a comprehensive role in cushioning the impact of the national crisis on daily life and education.
The call to action underscores the need for coordinated efforts between national and local authorities to prevent the oil crisis from exacerbating existing inequalities in education. As institutions adapt to online learning, the support from LGUs could be crucial in ensuring that all students have the resources necessary to succeed academically during these challenging times.
