Students protest vs. CNU’s full online scheme

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu Normal University (CNU) has come under fire from students following its abrupt transition to fully online classes, a move that the administration defends as a temporary but necessary step in its P2-billion modernization program.

University President, Dr. Daniel A. Ariaso Sr., addressed the issue during a press conference held Friday, emphasizing that the shift to online learning is part of a broader transformation initiative.

He assured the public that face-to-face classes would return once construction is completed and the facilities are deemed safe for occupancy.

The online arrangement, which began on July 22, 2025, affects all departments under CNU Main Campus, including the Integrated Laboratory School.

However, students and faculty of the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences and the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center College of Medicine are exempted.

According to Ariaso, the modernization effort included a P998-million Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Development Program and a P947-million Centralized Student Smart Hub. These projects aim to transition CNU into a smart, tech-driven campus with world-class facilities.

He acknowledged the disruption but described it as a necessary trade-off to fast-track infrastructure upgrades.

“In economic terms, development always comes with temporary disruptions,” Ariaso stated.

The university has begun retrofitting several key buildings, including the ASAB, ACAS, College of Teacher Education, College of Nursing, and Science Building. These will be equipped with modern tools such as smart boards, CCTVs, laptops, tablets, and high-speed internet to enhance both instruction and security.

The construction officially commenced on July 22, the same day online classes were implemented.

Ariaso revealed that the decision to shift to remote learning was made hastily after contractors announced they were ready to begin work earlier than expected.

In his remarks, Ariaso apologized to students for the short notice and inconvenience. He explained that any delays in construction could have jeopardized the project’s budget and timeline, which is slated for completion by October 15, 2025.

Despite these explanations, student organizations have strongly criticized the administration, arguing that there was a lack of consultation and preparation. A joint statement from 18 student groups expressed frustration over the abrupt change.

The coalition stated that the decision disrupted academic preparations, particularly for students who had already relocated to Cebu or paid non-refundable boarding fees. Others reported difficulties with internet access and inadequate home learning environments.

Freshmen were among those most affected, with many feeling isolated during the critical first weeks of their university experience. Students said the lack of on-campus interaction hindered their ability to build social networks and adjust to college life.

In response to these concerns, student leaders called for a more inclusive decision-making process. They urged the university to conduct open consultations with students and faculty before implementing major academic changes.

“This is a call for collaboration, for accountability, and for a university culture where decisions are made with students—not just for them,” read the coalition’s unity statement.

The group is demanding a delay in the full online setup until stakeholders are given a chance to participate in meaningful dialogue regarding academic transitions and support systems.

Among the signatories were notable student organizations such as CNU SoSciety, I-Mind Psychology Society, CNU Polikratos, English Fellows, CINE-U, AVE, and Kabataan Partylist–CNU. These groups have also organized a protest scheduled for Friday morning at 10 a.m.

The CNU Supreme Student Council published the memorandum announcing the transition online on July 21. The same day was declared a transition period for faculty and students to adjust schedules and finalize online learning strategies.

Ariaso reiterated that the university will adopt flexible learning modalities during the online period to reduce academic disruption. He said the administration is committed to maintaining the quality of education throughout the modernization process.

He also stated that access to limited on-campus facilities such as the library and Idea and Knowledge Center is being considered to accommodate students with connectivity issues. A traffic flow plan is currently being studied to support this limited reopening.

The administration maintains that safety remains the top priority. Ariaso emphasized that no students or staff will be allowed back on campus until buildings are cleared and certified by the proper authorities.

In an effort to assure transparency, CNU released conceptual renderings of the upcoming facilities. These showcase technologically advanced classrooms, media labs, and communal hubs designed to cater to 8,000 to 10,000 future students.

The campus modernization is expected to enhance learning experiences and attract more applicants in the coming academic years. It is one of the largest investments in the university’s history.

As the university pushes forward with construction, student voices continue to demand better communication and participatory governance. The situation highlights the delicate balance between institutional development and the lived experiences of its academic community.

While Ariaso’s administration insists the disruption is temporary, many students argue that the effects—both academic and psychological—may be long-lasting if concerns are not addressed adequately.

At the core of the dispute lies a shared goal: to improve the university. But students insist that the path to progress must also be inclusive, transparent, and just. (CEBU NEWS)