The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday, June 16, clarified that participation in the National Learning Camp (NLC) during the school break is “not mandatory” for teachers and students.

(DepEd / MB Visual Content Group)

DepEd Undersecretary and Spokesperson Michael Poa, in a DZBB interview, emphasized that participating in the learning camp is “voluntary” for teachers and learners.

“Hindi po ito mandatory, doon lang sa gustong sumali sa learning camp (This is not mandatory, it’s only for those who want to join the learning camp,” Poa said.

In a memorandum issued this month, DepEd announced its plan to implement the NLC in July, during the school break.

READ:

https://mb.com.ph/2023/6/7/dep-ed-to-hold-nat-l-learning-camp-during-school-break

Based on the calendar for School Year (SY) 2022-2023, classes in public schools will end on July 7.

Poa confirmed that DepEd will implement the NLC starting July 24. “We’re still finalizing the details, we are hoping to release those guidelines as soon as possible,” he explained in a mix of English and Filipino.

Addressing learning gaps

Poa explained that in previous years, DepEd has been implementing “summer classes” for learners who need remediation and catch-up lessons.

However, unlike in “summer classes” where the learners who usually take the program are those who have failing or low grades,” Poa said the NLC is open for all.

“Ang kaibahan hindi ito para lang sa ma bumabagsak o mababa yung grades, lahat inaanyayahan natin na mag-participate sa learning camp (The difference is it's not just for those who fall or have low grades, we invite everyone to participate in the learning camp),” Poa said.

Poa explained that the NLC is also part of DepEd’s bigger program which is the National Learning Recovery.

“Coming out of the pandemic, there are learning losses and gaps,” he said.

Through the NLC, which features intervention, enrichment, and remediation, DepEd hopes to address these learning gaps and losses.