Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Philippines

In the ever-evolving realm of Philippine higher education, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) emerges as a guiding light and authoritative figure. Established to oversee and uplift the standards of higher education in the country as the counterpart of DepEd for primary and secondary education, CHED plays an integral role to help shaping the academic future of millions of Filipinos. At its core, this vital institution is not just a regulatory body but a catalyst for transformative educational experiences and opportunities.

The importance of CHED in ensuring quality training cannot be overstated. Through its meticulous oversight, policymaking, and program development, CHED ensures that higher educational institutions across the Philippines adhere to the highest standards of academic excellence. This commitment to quality is pivotal in preparing Filipino students not just for local success but for global competitiveness. Let’s learn more about it in the following sections.

Table of Contents

logo of CHED

What is CHED?

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) serves as the pivotal navigator of the Philippines’ higher education system, steering it towards a future marked by quality and accessibility. Established under the Republic Act No. 7722, or the Higher Education Act of 1994, CHED’s role transcends mere oversight; it shapes the nation’s educational destiny.

Mandate and Functions of CHED

At the heart of CHED’s mandate is the promotion of quality higher education. This broad objective encompasses setting rigorous standards, upholding academic freedom, and fostering excellence in teaching, research, and extension services.

A significant part of CHED’s mission is to democratize access to higher education, making it affordable and inclusive, especially for the marginalized sectors of society. Moreover, as a regulatory body, CHED grants operational permits to higher education institutions (HEIs), monitors their performance, and resolves sector-related conflicts.

CHED’s Key Offices and Their Responsibilities

To effectively navigate the vast expanse of higher education, CHED is structured into several specialized offices:

Policy, Planning, and Research Service (PPRS): This office takes the helm in policy formulation, research, and strategic planning, ensuring that the higher education sector aligns with national development goals.
Bureau of Higher Education (BHE): Responsible for the day-to-day operations, the BHE regulates, monitors, and evaluates the performance of HEIs.
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA): TESDA’s focus lies in technical and vocational education and training, crucial for skill development in the country.
Professional Regulation Commission (PRC): This office oversees the licensure and regulation of professionals, maintaining standards across various fields.

Steering Policy and Program Approval

CHED’s policy formulation is akin to setting the compass for the higher education sector. It develops policies on curriculum standards, accreditation, faculty development, student welfare, financial aid, and research. When it comes to program approval, CHED meticulously reviews and authorizes new academic programs offered by HEIs, ensuring their relevance, quality, and resource adequacy.

The Heart of CHED’s Mission

Quality assurance is a cornerstone of CHED’s operations. By accrediting programs and institutions, monitoring compliance, and resolving grievances, CHED maintains the integrity and excellence of higher education in the Philippines.

Curriculum Development and Standard Setting

Collaborating with various stakeholders, CHED is instrumental in developing curricula that are both relevant and contemporary. It sets national standards, encourages innovative curriculum design, and fosters flexibility in educational approaches.

CHED’s Enduring Impact

The impact of CHED on the Philippine higher education landscape is profound. It has significantly increased access to higher education, improved the quality of education, enhanced research and development efforts, and fostered international cooperation in the educational sphere.

Historical Background of CHED

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) of the Philippines has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s higher education since its inception in 1994. The journey of CHED can be summarized in three distinct phases:

Early Years (1994-2000): CHED was established through Republic Act No. 7722, following the recommendations of the Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM). This period was focused on setting up the organizational structure, regional offices, and core policies, with a primary focus on granting permits, setting standards, and ensuring quality in higher education institutions.
Growth and Refinement (2001-2010): This era was marked by significant initiatives such as the launch of the Ladderized Education Program in 2003, the implementation of the Outcomes-Based Education Framework in 2004, and the establishment of the Philippine Qualifications Framework in 2006. These steps were aimed at enhancing accessibility, relevance, and quality in the higher education sector.
Challenges and Adaptations (2011-Present): Recent years have seen CHED adapting to new challenges, such as aligning higher education programs with the K to 12 system, implementing the ASEAN Qualifications Framework for regional mobility, and launching the Philippine Learning Portal for online education. These initiatives demonstrate CHED’s commitment to addressing issues like affordability, access for marginalized groups, and adapting to globalized economy demands.

Throughout its history, CHED has significantly impacted higher education in the Philippines by doubling enrollment rates, improving graduation rates and learning outcomes through quality assurance, making education more relevant to workforce needs, and enhancing the global presence of Philippine higher education institutions. As CHED continues its journey, it focuses on future challenges like bridging the digital divide, fostering innovation, and adapting to emerging fields and technologies.

CHED’s Programs and Initiatives

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines is more than just a regulatory body; it’s a proactive advocate and catalyst for progress in the country’s higher education system. CHED’s diverse range of programs and initiatives significantly contribute to enhancing accessibility, inclusivity, and the overall quality of higher education in the Philippines. Let’s explore these key areas in detail.

Scholarships and Aid for All

CHED Merit Scholarship Program (CMSP): This program is a lifeline for academically talented students from underprivileged backgrounds, offering full or partial tuition and stipend assistance.

Student Financial Assistance Programs for Tertiary Education (STFAP): Targeting students from low-income families, STFAP provides crucial financial support to those enrolled in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs).
Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA): Focusing on students in private higher education institutions (HEIs), PESFA offers tuition subsidies and grants.

Faculty Development Initiatives

Faculty Development Program (FDP): This initiative aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of faculty members in HEIs through scholarships and training programs.
CHED Higher Education Academy (HEA): The HEA focuses on capacity-building for HEI administrators, faculty, and staff, ensuring they are equipped to meet evolving educational demands.
Centers of Excellence (COEs) and Centers of Development (CODs): These centers foster research and innovation in specialized fields, helping to attract and nurture talented educators.

Research and Development Support

National R&D Productivity Monitoring and Evaluation System (NPRMES): This system evaluates the research outputs of HEIs, promoting a culture of research excellence and relevance.
Philippine Higher Education Research Agenda (PHERA): PHERA guides research funding allocation, aligning it with national priorities.
CHED R&D Grants: These grants provide essential funding for HEIs to undertake research projects that contribute to national development goals.

Enhancing Accessibility and Inclusivity

CHED-TESDA Harmonized Ladderized Education Program: Offering flexible education pathways, this program includes vocational and technical education options for students.
Open Educational Resources (OERs): Through the Philippine Learning Portal, CHED promotes free and accessible learning materials.
Inclusive Higher Education Program (IHEP): IHEP focuses on supporting HEIs in accommodating students with disabilities, and ensuring equal access to education.
Indigenous Peoples Education Program (IPEd): This program develops culturally appropriate educational programs for Indigenous Peoples’ communities.

These initiatives by CHED are pivotal in ensuring that higher education in the Philippines is not only accessible but also impactful for all Filipinos. By investing in scholarships, faculty development, research, and inclusivity programs, CHED is paving the way for a brighter future, where every individual has the opportunity to excel and contribute to the nation’s progress.

Applying for CHED Scholarships

Applying for CHED’s scholarships and grants can be navigated with ease by following these steps:

Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the requirements as outlined in the program guidelines.
Gather Necessary Documents: Prepare and organize all required documents, including academic transcripts, proof of income, and personal statements.
Submit Your Application: Most applications can be submitted online through CHED’s regional offices or dedicated program websites.
Stay Informed: Keep track of your application status and be mindful of any deadlines or important updates.

Video: CHED UniFAST Milestones 2021

Here’s a video that captures the essence of CHED’s five-year journey dedicated to making quality tertiary education accessible in the Philippines. It’s a narrative of dedication, partnership, and community involvement, highlighting the significant contributions of their higher education institution partners, as well as the beneficiaries of the Free Higher Education (FHE) and Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) programs, alongside other essential stakeholders.

Contact Information

Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
Address: 55 C.P. Garcia Ave, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Metro Manila
Telephone number: 09125145791
Office Hours: Weekdays, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: https://ched.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PhCHED.gov/