For a long time, the difficulty and cost of traveling to large, high-quality universities have often determined the future of young students in the mountain barangays of Cebu City. These students frequently view college education as a luxury, not due to lack of intelligence, but because of the heavy expenses and long distances involved. It is not surprising that some youth in the mountains lose their motivation to pursue higher education because of these challenges.
However, this situation may soon change thanks to the Cebu City Council's initiative to establish the Cebu City College. Under the plan, the main campus will be built at the South Road Properties, with satellite campuses in the mountain barangays of Guba for the North District and Babag for the South District. Councilor Pastor Alcover Jr., who pushed for the ordinance creating the college, along with the entire City Council, aims to address what is called the "geographic tax"—the additional burden faced by families in the mountains.
When a student's daily fare reaches around PHP 300, the dream of completing a degree often vanishes like bubbles due to the strength of this barrier. However, once the Cebu City College is established in the mountains, it is hoped that this strong barrier will be broken, allowing the youth to pursue their aspirations through education.
This move by the City Council is commendable not only for expanding infrastructure but also for its comprehensive vision. The focus on high-demand courses such as Nursing, Information Technology, and others demonstrates a practical approach to improving livelihoods. Furthermore, the creation of a Board of Trustees, which includes teachers, students, and scholarship representatives, ensures that the institution remains a living asset of the community rather than a rigid government office. This governance model is crucial to ensure that the curriculum aligns with student needs and the city's job requirements.
However, this endeavor may face potential challenges, particularly in financial aspects. A college is a continuous obligation that requires sustained funding, staffing, and maintenance. For Cebu City College to succeed, the city government must ensure that its funding plan is as solid as its educational ideals. It is hoped that the city government will overcome whatever challenges this major project encounters.
