THE UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas will prioritize the conduct of limited face-to-face classes for degree programs where hands-on learning is needed.

A report by the school’s publication The Varsitarian said that the university is preparing learning plans for other programs such as engineering, information and technology, and tourism and hospitality management.

It said that Prof. Cheryl Peralta, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, declared that priority will be given to skills-based courses “where the learning outcomes are best taught and assessed through in-person teaching and learning strategies.”

“Graduating students who are enrolled in internship and practicum courses would be prioritized,” she said.

“Academic units prepare their training plans taking into consideration identified program outcomes that will need to be addressed, cyclical cohorting of students and academic staff, as well as the operationalization of all safety protocols that need to be implemented,” Peralta explained.

“We wait for the release of policies and guidelines before finalizing our application for authority to reopen,” the official added.

CHED Chairman Prospero De Vera III earlier said that universities and colleges in Metro Manila may soon hold physical classes for all degree programs as vaccination rate against Covid19 continues to rise.

He noted that the resumption of in-person classes is “more possible” if the vaccination turnout in the education sector and in communities near schools is high.