SENATOR Joel Villanueva has emphasized the need to strengthen support systems for learners and make the country’s education system more responsive to the current realities faced by students.

Villanueva cited findings from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), which showed that access to education alone is not sufficient to ensure that learners are able to complete their studies.

The senator said Senate Bill No. 1894, or the proposed Amendments to the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, seeks to improve the delivery and targeting of tertiary education support programs.

He said the measure is intended to ensure that more students are not only able to enroll in school but also successfully finish their education.

“This is not just about providing free tuition. This is about providing real opportunity and a better future for our youth,” he said.

The proposed bill is part of ongoing efforts in the Senate to strengthen the implementation of the country’s free higher education program and address challenges affecting students and educational institutions.