Degree Programs on Climate Change in Philippine Universities: Factors that Favor Institutionalization

Abstract

The Philippine Climate Change Act of 2009 (RA 9729) mandates the integration of climate change in school curricula, and in capacity building, research and extension programs. Encouraged by the desire to know the policies and strategies that academic institutions are taking to address climate issues, this research seeks to examine efforts of universities in integrating climate change issues in academic endeavors and the extent to which these are sustained or institutionalized. The experiences of 10 universities covered in the study show that efforts have to be well coordinated, require a mandate at the highest level, partnerships can boost efforts, and success requires the participation of many disciplines and sectors. Some universities are more deeply involved than the others, but otherwise each has its own unique strategies to sustain decisions. The universities studied have developed their respective academic area of expertise to serve the knowledge and skills needs of the community and region where they operate. The paper hopes to contribute to a greater understanding of institutionalizing climate action by putting together information on climate change-related degree programs and initiatives of HEIs.