ILIGAN VISION 2050 – PILLAR #2: FREE AND QUALITY EDUCATION FOR ILIGAN
Education is the backbone of a prosperous society. It shapes minds, builds character, and provides individuals with the tools to uplift themselves and their communities. However, for many Iliganons, access to quality education remains a challenge. High tuition fees, the absence of a state university, and limited scholarship opportunities make it difficult for students—especially those from low-income families—to pursue higher education. This must change. Iligan City deserves a future where every child, regardless of economic status, has the opportunity to receive free and quality education.
The Current State of Education in Iligan
Iligan, despite its economic and cultural significance in Mindanao, lacks its own state university. Many aspiring students have to leave the city to seek affordable yet high-quality tertiary education elsewhere. Those who cannot afford to study outside are left with limited choices, forcing some to abandon their dreams altogether.
The closure of Colegio de Iligan (CDI) only highlights this painful reality. Hundreds of students who relied on the institution for affordable education were left without options, emphasizing the urgent need for the local government to step in and address the education crisis. If we truly want to build a progressive Iligan, investing in education should be our top priority.
The Vision: Establishing a State University in Iligan
It is time to build Iligan’s own state university—a higher education institution that offers tuition-free, quality education for all Iliganons. A state university will not only provide accessible education but will also serve as a hub for innovation, research, and skills development, creating opportunities for both students and professionals.
Why Iligan Needs a State University
Equal Access to Higher Education – Every Iliganon deserves the opportunity to study without the burden of high tuition fees. A state university will ensure that no student is left behind due to financial constraints.
Local Development and Economic Growth – A well-educated population attracts investors, fosters innovation, and boosts the local economy.
Reduced Brain Drain – Many of our talented young minds leave Iligan to study elsewhere. By providing quality education at home, we can retain our best and brightest and encourage them to contribute to local development.
Support for Research and Innovation – A state university will open doors for research opportunities, industry partnerships, and technological advancements, placing Iligan on the map as a center for academic excellence.
Strengthening the Public Education System
A state university alone is not enough. We must also address the quality of primary and secondary education to ensure that students are well-prepared for higher learning. This includes:
Upgrading Public School Facilities – Many schools in Iligan lack proper classrooms, laboratories, and libraries. The government must allocate funding to modernize educational infrastructure.
Investing in Teachers and Faculty – Providing competitive salaries, continuous training, and proper resources for educators will improve teaching quality.
Strengthening STEM and Vocational Programs – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, alongside vocational training, will equip students with the skills needed for modern industries.
Digital Learning and Internet Access – Implementing technology-driven learning methods and ensuring all public schools have internet access will enhance education quality and accessibility.
Scholarships and Financial Assistance for Students
While establishing a state university is a long-term goal, immediate action is needed to assist students who are currently struggling with tuition costs. The city must implement expanded scholarship programs and financial aid initiatives, including:
Full and Partial Scholarships – Providing financial assistance based on academic merit and financial need to deserving students.
Student Loan Programs – Offering low-interest, government-subsidized loans that students can repay once they enter the workforce.
Work-Study Programs – Partnering with businesses and government offices to offer part-time work opportunities for students to support their education.
Free Educational Materials – Ensuring that textbooks, learning modules, and other necessary materials are provided to public school students at no cost.
Technical and Vocational Education: A Pathway to Employment
Not all students will pursue traditional university degrees, and that is completely okay. Many industries in Iligan require skilled workers in areas such as construction, engineering, healthcare, and information technology.
To address this, we need to strengthen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs by:
Enhancing TESDA Training Centers – Increasing funding and resources for technical skills development.
Industry Partnerships – Collaborating with local businesses and factories to provide hands-on training and guaranteed employment for skilled graduates.
Entrepreneurship and Small Business Training – Teaching students how to start and manage their own businesses, empowering them to become job creators rather than job seekers.
Bringing Education to the Grassroots Level
Education should not only be accessible in the city proper but also in rural areas where students often struggle with transportation and financial limitations.
To bridge this gap, the government must:
Establish Community Learning Centers – Creating satellite campuses or learning hubs in barangays to make education more accessible.
Provide Free Transportation for Students – Implementing a transportation program for students who live far from schools.
Launch Alternative Learning Systems (ALS) – Strengthening ALS programs for out-of-school youth and working individuals who wish to continue their education.
Education as a Tool for Social Change
When people are educated, they are empowered. A well-educated population contributes to lower crime rates, better governance, and stronger community involvement. By prioritizing education, Iligan will cultivate leaders, professionals, and responsible citizens who will shape the future of the city.
A Call for Leadership that Cares
To make this vision a reality, we need leaders who are truly committed to the betterment of Iligan’s youth. We need leaders who understand that education is not a privilege but a basic right that must be provided to every Iliganon.
We must demand from our public officials:
Stronger Education Policies – Legislation that guarantees free and quality education for all.
Higher Budget Allocation for Education – Increasing funding for public schools, teachers, and student assistance programs.
Transparent Use of Education Funds – Ensuring that government resources are properly used for the development of the education sector.
Public-Private Partnerships for Education – Encouraging collaborations between the government, private companies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to support education initiatives.
The Future of Iligan: An Educated, Empowered, and Progressive City
A city that values education is a city that thrives. With the right policies, investments, and leadership, we can build an Iligan that provides free, accessible, and quality education for all. An Iligan where students no longer have to leave the city for better opportunities. An Iligan where every child has the chance to learn, grow, and achieve their dreams.
The time for change is now. Let us work together to make education a top priority in Iligan City. Let us build a future where no child is left behind.
A better Iligan starts with education—let’s make it happen!