Night School Reform Act (Proposed)
Description
The Night School Reform Act proposes the conversion of all public primary and secondary schools into extension campuses of nearby State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) during evening hours. The goal is to maximize the use of existing infrastructure to provide accessible education for out-of-school youth, adult learners, and working individuals.
Background
Across the Philippines, thousands of public school buildings remain idle after regular class hours. These facilities-often centrally located within communities—represent a significant but underutilized asset. In parallel, millions of Filipinos lack access to affordable, flexible education options, particularly those who were unable to complete formal schooling or are seeking skills training while employed. This law addresses the disconnect between physical infrastructure and educational demand.
Policy Mechanism
Under this proposal, school buildings will be used at night as SUC-operated learning centers. Evening programs may include Alternative Learning System (ALS) modules, vocational and technical training, senior high school catch-up programs, literacy initiatives, and even select general education college courses. The implementation will require coordination among the Department of Education (DepEd), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), SUCs, and local government units (LGUs) to ensure scheduling, curriculum integration, and facility management.
Purpose
To double educational access for out-of-school youth, adult learners, and underemployed citizens by utilizing public school buildings during nighttime hours, without the need for new construction.
Rationale
Most school buildings remain vacant after the end of the regular class day. By opening these spaces at night, the government can dramatically expand access to education using existing resources. This approach offers a scalable and cost-efficient solution to educational gaps, especially in underserved areas. It supports national objectives for inclusive education, workforce development, and poverty alleviation.
Significance
If adopted, the Night School Reform Act would be the first nationwide initiative to institutionalize dual-use educational infrastructure in the Philippines. It reflects a governance philosophy centered on resource efficiency, social equity, and practical reform. Without requiring massive capital outlays, the law has the potential to transform idle school buildings into engines of learning, hope, and opportunity.
Ordinance
Can be enacted immediately by local government units LGUs as an ordinance or local law while waiting for national legislation, allowing provinces, cities and municipalities to pioneer inclusive, low-cost night education programs.