SCHOLARSHIP FOR STAFF AND INSTRUCTORS' KNOWLEDGE ADVANCEMENT PROGRAM (SIKAP) OF THE COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION IN CORDILLERA ADMINISTRATIVE REGION

The study assessed the effectiveness of the Scholarship for Staff and Instructors’ Knowledge Advancement Program (SIKAP) of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). It specifically determined the extent of attainment of the identified professional growth, challenges or problems do SIKAP scholars encounter during their studies, and potential interventions that could enhance the support provided by SIKAP, addressing specific challenges faced by scholars and strengthening the program’s effectiveness in faculty development that advanced faculty development within the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). The study employed a quantitative descriptive research design. A survey questionnaire was used as the primary data-gathering instrument, and responses were obtained from 176 SIKAP scholars across various HEIs in CAR. Data were analyzed using statistical tools such as weighted mean, frequency, and ranking. Findings revealed that SIKAP had a positive impact on faculty development. Most scholars reported improvements in their teaching competence, research productivity, and opportunities for promotion and leadership roles. The scholarship program also contributed to the institutional growth of HEIs by enhancing the qualifications and capabilities of their academic staff. However, challenges such as delayed fund release, administrative inefficiencies, and limited institutional support were identified as barriers to the program’s full implementation. Based on these results, the study recommends strengthened coordination between CHED and HEIs, improved fund management systems, and more straightforward program guidelines to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of SIKAP in achieving its goals for higher education in the region.