IN-DEPTH | NPU: For Class or the Masses?

Our Sintang Paaralan is hanging on a thread with the possible approval of the National Polytechnic University (NPU) bill. The law promises additional funding for the university, which it deserves; however, whispers of potential tuition fees and compromised autonomy instilled a shadow of unease on PUPians. Will ‘sinta’ remain accessible to all or will it morph into something reserved for the privileged few?

The NPU bill, filed by the House of Representatives in February 2019, aims to declare the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) as the National Polytechnic University, positioning it as a guiding force for other polytechnic institutions.

In 2019, a veto by President Duterte prompted reassessment due to concerns about PUP’s ranking among state universities and colleges (SUCs). As of October 2023, the bill was approved by the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education, adding a layer of uncertainty to the fate of the institution.

Under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act or RA 1093, PUP, the largest state university in the country by population, with an estimated 80,000 students annually, primarily provides education access to those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, providing an opportunity for them to obtain a diploma without additional financial burdens. If this lifeline vanishes, sudden fees and hidden charges could shatter this accessibility, replacing relief with financial strain.

However, PUP is not without its shortcomings: sudden power disruptions, limited amenities, you name it; PUPians unwillingly became used to it. Their resourcefulness, honed through overcoming challenges, might be what makes them so desirable to employers—ranking first with a 23.39% rating on Jobstreet’s preferred workers. These graduates are testaments to the quality of PUP’s education and the incredible drive of its students.

In figures

According to a report by the PUP Campus Journalists last November, the university would only receive P2.9 billion in 2024—an almost four billion decrease from its originally requested budget of P6.9 billion from the National Expenditure Program (NEP). This would only allocate around P31,000 per student, nine times less than the University of the Philippines (UP) and roughly half of the national average, based on an analysis by PUP economic student Patrick Rabi.

However, it's important to recognize that PUPians possess the potential to not only be employees but also leaders. The NPU bill may be the first step, and it seems to have good intentions at first glance, but there are still sections of the bill with ambiguity.

Programs diminished to a footnote

While the NPU bill emphasizes strengthening PUP's focus on engineering and technical fields, it fails to adequately address the fate of non-polytechnic courses like mass communication, theater arts, and education.

These programs have long formed an integral part of PUP's identity and significantly contribute to its diversity and well-roundedness. This raises concerns about potential neglect of vital academic areas and could diminish PUP's unique character. Will the heart of PUP just remain as footnotes of the bill?

Privatization & Commercialization

In Section 7, the powers and duties of the governing board were discussed. It is rather unsettling to think that PUP may become indebted to donors. While receiving donations is positive, it may also raise concerns about potential censorship. The Board also holds the power to impose tuition fees if deemed necessary.

The bill, though appealing at first glance, is like a fruit with poisonous seeds. It has parts that, if interpreted another way, maybe poisonous or healthy fruit.

Either way, having those who plant them guide their growth is most important. If the farmer takes care of the tree, it will favor the farmer and grow fruits that will nourish him. If it abuses the tree, it may die, making it useless to anyone.

PUP's essence lies in its authenticity, unfiltered expression, and its rich history rooted in social justice. It's a haven where students feel secure to be themselves.

Let’s not lose sight of what makes PUP truly remarkable—its uniqueness, resilience, and the unmistakable assurance that within its lively chaos, it is a sanctuary where being ‘us’ is not just allowed but celebrated. PUP should be for everyone, growing trees and bearing healthy fruit for society.