USTP Shines a Light on Education: Night Classes for Working Students and Out-of-School Youth

The University of Science and Technology of the Philippines (USTP) is taking a significant step towards expanding educational opportunities for working students, out-of-school youth, and underserved students in Cagayan de Oro City. The USTP is set to offer night classes and weekend classes in August of this year, as approved and implemented by the USTP's Board of Regents (BOR) during their last special board meeting, which was chaired by CHED Commissioner Jo Mark Libre.

The night class program was originally proposed by Cong. Rufus Rodriguez last year, who is a committed member of the BOR and the principal author of the USTP Law. Rodriguez strongly believes that it is the University's responsibility to provide quality education to a wider population and take measures to expand access to education to reach the underserved members of society. Thus, he supports the opening of more class schedules in USTP to give more residents in Cagayan de Oro City the opportunity to receive high-standard education and training.

The Night Class Program will provide FREE tuition and other school fees courtesy of the Free Higher Education Appropriation granted by RA 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. This will undoubtedly encourage more individuals to pursue higher education and obtain the knowledge and skills they need to pursue their goals.

The proposed programs to be offered during the night classes include BS in Computer Engineering, BS in Information Technology, BS in Technology Communication Management, and Bachelor of Technology, Operations and Management. These courses will provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue successful careers in various fields, especially those related to technology and management.

Offering night classes and weekend classes is an excellent opportunity for working students, out-of-school youth, and underserved students to obtain a quality education that they may have otherwise been unable to access. It is a significant step towards ensuring that every individual has access to education, as it recognizes the basic human right to education.

The USTP's decision to offer night classes and weekend classes is a commendable move that deserves applause. It is a testament to their commitment to providing quality education to a wider population and taking measures to expand access to education to reach underserved members of society. It is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are working or are unable to attend regular classes to obtain the knowledge and skills they need to pursue successful careers.