SUPPORTING HEALTH RESEARCH. Commission on Higher Education chairperson J. Prospero de Vera III lauds delegates for their research efforts during the 16th Philippine National Health Research System Week closing ceremony in his virtual speech on Friday (Aug. 11, 2023). De Vera also expressed support in boosting health research in higher education institutions to fortify the country's resilience and post-pandemic recovery. (Screengrab)
MANILA — The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on Friday expressed support for mobilizing higher education institutions (HEIs) as research centers.
In a speech during the celebration of the 16th Philippine National Health Research System, CHED chairperson J. Prospero de Vera III said the commission approved a project "to develop and improve the capacity of HEIs" in health research.
"Through this project, our higher education institutions will develop the capability to have priority in research areas, to be able to develop their capacity, to develop proposals that can be funded, and faculty members that can do good research," he said, referring to HEIs providing nursing and medical programs.
De Vera said an innovative approach would aid the country in addressing pressing national concerns alongside achieving resilience and recovery.
Meanwhile, the CHED reiterated its commitment to ensuring the welfare of health front-liners and aspiring healthcare professionals.
"We fully support President (Ferdinand R.) Marcos' (Jr.) plan to strengthen the country's healthcare system by building specialty hospitals across the Philippines, by prioritizing the welfare of medical front-liners, and by addressing the crucial healthcare concerns of nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals," de Vera said.
He also assured to improve program setups to produce world-class doctors and nurses amid increasing demands for the local and international health workforce.
The CHED has authorized the opening of new medical programs for doctors and nurses in 18 public universities.
De Vera said expected graduates from these HEIs will practice their profession in underserved areas in the country.
The CHED also secured agreements with other government agencies to provide review opportunities for nurses who have not yet passed the licensure examination.
The commission also lifted the moratorium on nursing programs in all universities nationwide, which is part of its long-term solution to the manpower shortage of healthcare professionals. (PNA)
