Hawaii House Bill HR121

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 3/29/22
• Refer: 3/29/22
• Report Pass: 4/5/22
• Passed: 4/5/22

Caption

Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Report On The Pamantasan Council's Systemwide Efforts To Improve The Status Of Filipinos At The University Of Hawaii.

Impact

The resolution highlights that Filipino students have increased in representation at community colleges but face challenges in advancing to four-year campuses, with concerns raised over underrepresentation in graduate programs. Additionally, the university's faculty does not adequately reflect the student population, especially in critical, permanent positions, further complicating the educational equity landscape. The request for a comprehensive report showcases a broader initiative to enhance support and resources for Filipino students and faculty in the University of Hawaii system.

Summary

House Resolution 121 requests the University of Hawaii to report on the efforts of the Pamantasan Council to improve the status of Filipinos within the university system. Filipinos constitute approximately one-quarter of Hawaii's population, and this resolution acknowledges their significant presence yet notes a decline in their representation, particularly in transferring from community colleges to four-year institutions. The report aims to address the disparities in educational access and success among Filipino students and faculty.

Contention

The resolution draws attention to issues concerning curricula that currently lack Filipino-related courses and the overall educational framework within the University of Hawaii, which the Pamantasan Council seeks to address. The future report is expected to include recommendations on enhancing curriculum content, representation, and success rates for Filipino students and faculty. The resolution also indirectly calls for legislative actions that could follow if the university identifies significant gaps or issues that require redress.