Conducted by MSEUF
, Started on 2013 -
Completed on 2014
Completed
Published
Copyrighted
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The primary objective of this study was to identify the current security systems/ measures/practices applied by the private and state universities/colleges in the CALABARZON region as well as to assess the current security practices of these higher education institutions with regard to: (a) day to day operations; (b) emergency preparedness; (c) ability to respond to threats; and (d) preventive measures. This study also considered the factors which are helpful in the management of safety and security in institutions of higher learning.
The study utilized the descriptive-evaluative and exploratory research method. It employed multiple data collection methods such as quantitative and qualitative approaches to triangulate the data gathered in this study. Primary data were collected through surveys among purposively selected HEIs to achieve the purpose and objectives of the study. Informal focus group discussions and interviews were also done to obtain preliminary data regarding the current security system in the respective campuses. The respondents were composed of selected teaching and non-teaching staff and students from selected private and state colleges and universities in CALABARZON. Fifty academic members (teaching and non-teaching), 50 non-academic employees, 30 security personnel, and 100 students were randomly selected as respondents. In the focus group discussion, 10 student members, 10 department chairpersons, 10 department heads, and 10 security personnel who were chosen purposively were also included. Frequency counts, percentages, weighted mean, Pearson r, and chi square test of significance were used in the data processing.
Results revealed that all of the public and private HEIs in CALABARZON have specific parking areas. However, not all of them have separate parking areas for faculty/employees and students. They generally agreed that there is nothing to be afraid of while they are inside their university campus but there are still some areas that need to be provided with security lighting such as hallways, pathways, corridors, and alternative exits. Some unguarded entrances also contribute to their unsafe feeling. They reveal that they feel safer inside the campus at daytime as compared to night time. Also, electronic security measure is prominent among private HEIs aside from personnel security. CCTV and electronic ID system are used to control and monitor entrance of employees and students although they have different policies in granting access, which change depending on the administrators and current. Some require a visitor ID while others require a duly signed letter of purpose at the gate. Most universities also have wired surveillance cameras and electronic identification card sensors, automatic fire-alarm systems, sprinkler systems, and security alarms. They use discreet metal detectors and cameras. Some state universities hire security personnel while others utilize personnel of maintenance department as security.
As to their day to day operations, the universities in CALABARZON are supervising the security of their campus by assigning security guards/personnel to patrol the whole campus. They also designate a particular area where visitors can be properly accommodated and control the movement inside the campus. They have multiple entries that are properly secured and monitored by security guards/personnel assigned.
In terms of emergency preparedness, most universities are emergency prepared as they install fire extinguishers in places that can be immediately seen and observed making it accessible in cases of emergency. To avoid false alarm that can cause more danger, switches and buttons are also controlled and properly placed and protected from any unauthorized personnel. Exit signs in every room are clearly visible and pointing to the correct direction to guide faculty/ employees and students to their immediate exits in emergency situations. They also regularly conduct fire and evacuation drills among the faculty/employee and students.
In responding to threats, they properly coordinate with the local government coordinating office to easily make a direct contact during cases of calamities. Information dissemination about campus safety and violence prevention is regularly provided among students and employees to make them more aware on the different ways of maintaining campus security. They also have a response team or emergency response committee undergoing regular training to handle most crises.
Preventive measures include regularly keeping and maintaining their perimeter fences to deter intruders from lurking inside the campus; making sure that every access point is properly controlled and supervised by providing one designated area or entrance for the visitors; providing written regulations regarding the access and control of using the building by campus personnel after campus hour; and installing security lighting in strategic location to provide adequate illumination is also part of their security measures.
Meanwhile, one factor affecting the safety and security of a university includes the number of population as the bigger the number of enrollees necessitates hiring or adding more security personnel to ensure safety and security. Another factor is the location of the campus as would be criminals will be more predisposed to commit crime due to its far distance from the city proper and makes it difficult to get immediate police assistance. Size of the campus also greatly affects the safety and its security because it is more difficult to supervise. Physical design of the school buildings, streets, and parking areas can also affect the accessibility and ease of entry and exits by anyone.
Therefore, the proposed development plan for campus safety and security developed through the study could be considered. There is also a need to improve existing control mechanisms, adopt appropriate measures in specific threats, and encourage exchange of experiences on campus security among educational institutions. A more efficient alarm system as well as lighting in universities in the region should also be installed. Campus security managers and campus security management teams must also show commitment by utilizing the necessary resources and logistics to ensure safety and security.