Limited in-person classes in HEIs under Alert Level 3 set on January 31, 2022 —CHED

Limited face-to-face classes in higher education institutions (HEIs) in areas under Alert Level 3 is set to begin on January 31, 2022, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) said Tuesday.

In a statement, CHED also said the HEIs based in areas under Alert Level 2 may begin limited in-person classes anytime.

CHED also reminded HEIs to ensure health and safety protocols will be followed when reopening schools for limited face-to-face classes.

"Application to CHED is not a requirement for the conduct of the limited face-to-face classes," it said.

"HEIs intending to hold limited face-to-face classes during the COVID-19 pandemic must be willing to assume the responsibilities for the reopening of their campuses based on their capability to comply with the health and safety protocols, to retrofit their facilities, and to get the support of their stakeholders," it further pointed out.

The HEIs must also notify their concerned CHED Regional Office through submission of an accomplished self-assessment checklist and notarized affidavit of undertaking prior to the start of the limited in-person classes, CHED also noted.

Meanwhile, during clustering of COVID-19 infections, preventive suspension of the face-to-face classes will be based on assessment and decision of  Crisis Management Committee (CMC) of the HEI in consultation with the Local Task Force against COVID-19.

Under CHED's guidelines, only fully-vaccinated students, teaching and non-teaching personnel are allowed to participate in limited face-to-face classes that started in December.

So far, over 50% of faculty and college students were already inoculated versus COVID-19.—LDF, GMA News