Wesleyan University-Philippines Graduate School (WUP GS) is among the only three Commission on Higher Education (CHED) – approved Delivering Higher Education Institutions (DHEIs) for the Learning Initiatives for Nurturing Guidance Associates and Counselors (LINGAP) Program in Central Luzon, strengthening its role in developing guidance professionals equipped to address learners’ academic, emotional, behavioral, and psychological needs.

As part of the initiative, WUP GS endorsed 11 approved scholars from Department of Education (DepEd) division offices, with eight approved on September 21, 2026, and three more on October 5, 2026.

The recognition highlighted the Graduate School’s participation in a regional effort to strengthen the guidance and counseling workforce through graduate education and professional development.

WUP GS takes part in a regional initiative

CHED Regional Office III formally communicated WUP GS’s approval as a LINGAP DHEI on June 30, 2026, pursuant to Commission en Banc Resolution No. 373 – 2026.

As one of only three approved institutions in Central Luzon, WUP GS contributes to the program’s implementation by providing academic opportunities and institutional support for scholars preparing for careers in guidance and counseling.

The initiatives involved collaboration among CHED, DepEd, and DHEIs to help develop qualified professionals who can strengthen guidance services in schools.

Through this partnership, graduate education becomes part of a broader effort to equip educational institutions with personnel who can respond to the changing needs of learners.

Preparing professionals for the changing needs of learners

Schools serve as more than spaces for academic instruction. They are also environments where learners encounter personal difficulties, behavioral concerns, and emotional challenges that may affect their participation and performance at school, and their relationships and interactions in society in general.

Guidance associates and counselors help address these concerns by providing appropriate guidance, facilitating referrals, and connecting learners with support services. Their work contributes to creating learning environments where students can seek assistance and develop confidence to manage challenges.

However, responding effectively to these needs requires professionals with relevant knowledge, skills, and preparation.

Through LINGAP, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) supports the development of the guidance and counseling workforce. WUP GS participates in this effort by providing academic assistance and institutional support to the 11 approved scholars as they pursue their studies and prepare for their professional responsibilities.

The initiative also highlights the importance of graduate education in developing professionals who can apply their training to the needs of learners and educational communities.

Extending graduate education beyond the classroom

The participation of WUP GS in LINGAP reflects how graduate education can contribute to public service beyond the university setting.

By supporting the development of guidance professionals, WUP GS takes part in strengthening the people and services that help learners navigate challenges throughout their education.

The program’s broader significance lies in the connection between professional preparation and student well-being. Qualified guidance personnel can help schools respond to individual concerns, identify when additional assistance is needed, and foster environments where learners feel supported.

As the 11 scholars pursue their academic preparation, their participation represents a step toward strengthening workforce guidance and advancing more responsive student support services.

Through LINGAP, WUP GS contributes to a wider educational goal: ensuring that learners’ needs are addressed not only through classroom instruction but also through guidance, understanding, and appropriate psychosocial support.

Photos from:
https://www.facebook.com/edcom2ph
https://ched.e.gov.ph/press-releases/864

Article by Emily G. Agumbay (PIO)
Poster by John Carlo S. Dauz (PIO)