The PUP plans to continue offering synchronous sessions for the persons deprived of liberty, ensuring they receive the same academic support as students on the main campus. Photo by the PUP-OUS.
The Polytechnic University of the Philippines Open University System (PUP OUS) has held its first synchronous classes for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Manila City Jail.
The session, held September 18, allowed 72 PDLs to enroll in a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration majoring in Marketing Management.
The initiative aims to provide quality education to marginalized groups. The university emphasizes its commitment to making education inclusive and accessible even to those in prison.
“This pioneering endeavor is a testament to the transformative power of education and its ability to break down barriers,” PUP said in a statement.
“The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and determination as the PDL students embraced this unique opportunity to further their education. The initiative equips them with valuable knowledge and skills, instills hope, and empowers them to envision a brighter future beyond their current circumstances,” it added.
This effort is expected to have a profound impact on the lives of these students, enabling them to pursue their dreams and contribute meaningfully to society upon their release, the statement added.
The PUP plans to continue offering synchronous sessions for the PDLs. It aims to ensure they receive the same academic support as students on the main campus.
The PUP OUS is a nontraditional educational unit of the PUP, established to provide accessible higher education through open and distance learning.
Founded in 1990, the university is one of the first open learning institutions in the Philippines and is recognized by the UNESCO Asia Pacific Knowledge Base on Open and Distance Learning.
