IATF approves limited face to face classes in colleges, universities
The Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) has approved the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) proposal to proceed with the phased implementation of face-to-face classes in higher education institutions (HEIs).
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Acting Presidential Spokesperson and Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said that the agency has greenlit its resolution 148-G, which adopted the proposed resumption of limited face-to-face classes in colleges and universities following the phased and nationwide implementation of Alert Levels System (ALS) for COVID-19.
Under the guidelines on the nationwide implementation of ALS, limited face-to-face classes are now permitted in areas under Alert Levels 1, 2 and 3, subject to certain conditions.
The resumption of classes will be allowed, on conditions that the room capacity is only at fifty percent (50%), participants only include fully-vaccinated teaching and non-teaching personnel and students, and concerned local government units give their approval.
Nograles furthered that Phase 1 of the implementation of limited face-to-face classes will start on December 2021 onwards, while Phase 2 will begin in January 2022 onwards. During the implementation of Phase 1, all HEIs in areas under Alert Level 2 may apply for the resumption of physical classes.
Nograles added that all universities and colleges in areas under Alert Level 3 may apply for limited F2F classes during the implementation of Phase 2. He furthered that the circular would serve as a guide for HEIs that intend to hold limited face-to-face classes and are willing to assume the responsibilities for the reopening of their campuses.
Nograles said HEIs must , retrofit their facilities, and get the support of their stakeholders.
Nograles also reminded all individuals qualified to participate in the resumption of classes to comply with health and safety protocols such as continuous wearing of face masks and practicing social distancing.
“As we slowly and cautiously open our college classrooms, we urge all stakeholders involved to work together to ensure the safety of our students so that they may be able to return to their schools secure in the knowledge that every effort has been made to safeguard their health,” he added.
Source: Official Gazette
