The Department of Budget and Management has approved the issuance of a special allotment release order amounting to P3.41 billion for the implementation of the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education (UAQTE) Act.
The fund release was approved by Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, chargeable against Department of Labor and Employment-Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s regular budget under the fiscal year 2024 General Appropriations Act.
Its corresponding notice of cash allocation in the amount of P1.77 billion for the first quarter of 2024 was likewise released.
Approximately 74,262 learners for the UAQTE program for the school year 2024 will benefit from the allocated P3.41 billion fund, which covers tuition and miscellaneous fees, accident insurance, trainee provision, internet allowance, starter tool kits, national assessment fees and other school charges.
Otherwise known as Republic Act 10931, the UAQTE is a law that formalizes zero-cost education and waivers of additional charges in state universities and colleges as well as local universities and colleges.
It envisions financial aid for private higher education institutions, to provide less privileged Filipinos better opportunities to pursue college degrees.
