16/04/2024
[OPINION]
DNSC students, teachers express their discomfort amidst searing heat, seeking relief and improved learning conditions
By Noli Cajes, Editor-In-Chief
Classrooms at Davao del Norte State College have turned into real ovens, leaving students and teachers struggling to cope with the intense heat. A recent survey conducted by the country's largest organization of teachers has shed light on the dire situation, revealing that around 67% of public school teachers experienced "intolerable heat" in their classrooms.
According to the latest forecast from DOST-PAGASA, dated April 15, 2024, the Davao Region is expected to experience temperatures reaching 39°C. Extreme caution is advised, with temperatures ranging from 33°C to 41°C, while danger looms with readings between 42°C and 51°C. The scorching temperatures are taking a toll on students' ability to concentrate, with 86.6% of teachers reporting that their students are having difficulty paying attention to lessons. DNSC students and teachers experienced the same situation.
BSED-Science student, Lean Jay Lomotos who frequently utilizes the chemistry laboratory expressed his concerns, stating, "The excessive heat is distracting us from learning. It's draining and leaves us feeling tired all the time." Similarly, Genevieve Consejeros a BTLED student shared similar sentiments, affirming, "The extreme heat is just too much to handle, especially when the classroom fans can't provide sufficient relief."
Moreover, Sir Maiko Anicoy, a Mathematics instructor said in an interview that the extreme heat made him sick forcing him to take a leave of absence. He further stated that the searing heat, especially in room 11 where he usually holds his class is not conducive for a student to learn.
One major concern is the lack of adequate cooling systems in classrooms. Despite efforts to rely on electric fans, they often prove insufficient to combat the sweltering conditions. Despite the severity of the situation, there has been no recorded instance of a student or teacher collapsing due to the intense heat. However, should we wait for such a dire event to occur? The absence of recorded incidents does not diminish the urgency of addressing the heat crisis at DNSC. Proactive measures are essential to prevent potential health emergencies and ensure the safety and well-being of students and faculty members.
Furthermore, the situation is intensified by the congested nature of many classrooms, making it even harder for students to escape the stifling heat. According to CHED Memorandum #52 series of 2007, for lecture classes, the ideal size is 35 students or less per class, but this is not the condition in our college since most classrooms are occupied by at least 37-40 students. With temperatures reaching dangerous levels, there is a growing fear for the health and well-being of those within the college community.
In light of these pressing concerns, it is imperative to explore alternative delivery modes of lessons to mitigate the adverse effects of the heat crisis. Whether through the adoption of online learning platforms, the establishment of outdoor classrooms, or the implementation of adjusted schedules to avoid the hottest parts of the day, innovative solutions must be pursued to ensure a safe learning environment for all.
The urgency of the situation demands swift and decisive action. Failure to address the heat crisis gripping DNSC not only jeopardizes the academic success of students but also poses significant risks to their health and well-being.
As temperatures continue to rise, the imperative for collaborative efforts to implement effective solutions becomes ever more apparent. Only through concerted action can DNSC alleviate the burden imposed by the relentless heat and foster an environment conducive to learning and growth.
Pubmat: Paulo Bastasa
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