QUALITY OF EDUCATION IN THE UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN PHILIPPINES: STAKEHOLDERS’ VIEW

This study focused on the stakeholders’ views on quality higher education in the University of Eastern Philippines.  Specifically, it explored and analyzed the processes involved in the crafting of the institution’s strategic plan in terms of its vision and mission statements; identified the quality assurance policies of the University; and, documented the performance of its graduates in terms of passing government licensure examinations. A mixed form of research technique was used as the research design, utilizing 384 randomly selected respondents composed of students, faculty members, alumni, and community stakeholders.  Also included as respondents were the Vice Presidents, College Deans, and 3 other University officials, thus, the total number of respondents was 400 individuals.  The mean was used to determine and compare the responses of the various stakeholder groups. Generally, the respondents were aware of the institution’s strategic plan, but many of them found it difficult to memorize its mission statement.  Consultations were made, though not with all stakeholders, during the crafting of the strategic plan.  They also noted that policies and guidelines were established, implemented, and strictly adhered to by the administration in its daily operations. Over a six-year period (2009 – 2014), the institution and its graduates generally performed below the national mean in its performance in government licensure examinations, although it has consistently performed well in examinations for Nurses, Elementary and Secondary Teachers, Master Electricians, and Criminologists. The institution therefore, has a well-crafted strategic plan, has established policies and guidelines for program implementation, and utilizes varied processes to ensure sustainability of educational programs.  It is noted however, that performance of its graduates was generally lower than the national average.