STUDENTS from various schools and universities criticized the Department of Education’s “insensitive” remark on the proposed implementation of an academic freeze.

DepEd previously said that it was not considering granting the calls for an academic freeze saying it will only prolong the suspension of students’ learning.

DepEd’s pronouncement was widely condemned by students, saying they felt “shattered” with the department’s “one-sided” stance regarding the issue.

In reactions posted on Facebook, some students said that flexible learning is ineffective for them. They dared officials of the education department to switch places with them so that they could understand “how hard it is.”

The students also noted that online classes take a heavy toll on their mental health as they are still trying to adjust to the new normal.

“Mahirap matuto sa online.. IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT LEARNING ANYMORE, IT’S ALL ABOUT PASSING ACTIVITIES,” a student shared on Facebook.

The call for the implementation of an academic freeze gained traction months back as students expressed concern that some of their peers will be “left behind” due to economic restraints brought by the Covid19 pandemic. However, the student sector is split on the issue.