Bicol University (BU) has taken the lead in implementing an equity policy aimed at providing greater access to higher education for marginalized and economically disadvantaged students. This groundbreaking initiative will allocate 15 percent of the overall BU college entrance test (Bucet) rating to the socio-economic profile (SEP) of student applicants. The policy, approved by the university’s Board of Regents (BOR) on February 21, will be implemented for the first time this school year.
Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin Nebres III, the president of BU, stated in a recent interview that the Albay-based institution is the first among state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the country to adopt this policy. The decision was made in response to the call by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chair Prospero de Vera to reignite the “real essence” of the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) or the Free Higher Education program. Dr. Nebres emphasized that the implementation of the equity policy is a way to demonstrate that the subsidy is truly intended for those in need.
Dr. Hennie Pama-Lomibao, the dean of the BU admissions office, explained that the inclusion of SEP in the admissions process aims to provide equal opportunities for applicants from marginalized sectors. She emphasized that since the tuition at BU is free, it is only appropriate that this benefit is enjoyed by students who genuinely require financial assistance.
The equity policy will be reviewed every two years to assess its effectiveness. The BU BOR approved the policy in a meeting on February 21 in Manila, with CHED commissioner Dr. Marita Canapi, who chairs the university’s BOR, in attendance. This marks the first revision of the Bucet applicant guidelines in 30 years. According to Pama-Lomibao, it was high time to consider quality as a screening metric in addition to allocating a percentage for equity.
One of the factors considered in the revision was the disparity in attraction and absorption rates between students from different socio-economic backgrounds. Pama-Lomibao noted that the attraction rate of BU towards students from marginalized sectors has been consistently high, but their absorption rate has been low over the past five years. On the other hand, the attraction rate for students from higher, more affluent backgrounds has been low, but their absorption rate has been significantly higher. This data indicates the need to level the playing field and increase the chances for less privileged students to compete for available slots.
Under the revised Bucet criteria, examination scores will remain the most significant component, accounting for 65 percent of the rating. The general weighted average from Grades 9 to 11 will make up 20 percent of the rating, while the SEP will contribute 15 percent. The SEP assessment will be based on the income classification and marginalization of the applicants’ families.
Bicol University’s pioneering implementation of the equity policy sets a precedent for other SUCs in the country. By prioritizing the needs of marginalized and economically disadvantaged students, BU aims to create a more inclusive and equitable higher education system. This initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to provide accessible and quality education for all, ensuring that deserving students have the opportunity to pursue their academic aspirations without financial barriers.
