Philippine students struggle in scorching heat, hindering educational progress | WSAU News/Talk 550 AM · 99.9 FM

As temperatures soar to a scorching 50 degrees Celsius in various regions of the Philippines, the sweltering heat is not only affecting farm production, water and power supply, and businesses, but it is also taking a toll on students. The intense heat is hampering the Southeast Asian nation’s efforts to catch up to its neighbors in education.

According to senior high school student Kirt Mahusay, 23, the heat is unbearable and burns his skin, making it difficult to focus on his studies. Thousands of schools have been forced to suspend classes due to the extreme heat, affecting more than 3.6 million students, as reported by the education ministry.

Xerxes Castro, a basic education adviser for Save the Children Philippines, expressed concerns about the impact of the heatwaves on learners, with temperatures reaching an average of more than 52 degrees Celsius. The heat makes it harder for students to concentrate and learn effectively, leading to potential heat-related illnesses such as dizziness, vomiting, and fainting.

Students and teachers alike are struggling with remote teaching and learning, especially in poorer areas where homes may not be conducive for studying and lack access to reliable internet connectivity. Even in-person classes in the capital Manila are not spared from the heat, with students resorting to portable fans, notebooks, and cardboard boxes for a bit of relief.

As the heatwave continues to grip the nation, concerns grow about the impact on education and the well-being of students and teachers. With the challenges posed by the scorching temperatures, efforts are needed to ensure that students can continue their education effectively despite the adverse weather conditions.