Under the leadership of Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte, the Department of Education (DepEd) highlighted various programs that were launched in 2023 that ensured quality education for every Filipino child, even those in remote areas.
In a video statement on Wednesday, Dec. 20, the department acknowledged the long road ahead to achieve its goal but emphasized its commitment to progress.
“We still have a long way to go in this journey of one year in 2023. Despite the challenges and obstacles that we must overcome, and the hardships that we have already faced, we have already taken the first steps towards achieving our goal,” DepEd said.
“Matatag tayong kumikilos at hinaharap ang mga hamon ang pagkakataon at patuloy na naglakbay upang maabot ang isang panatag at matatag na kinabukasan (We act firmly to face the challenges and opportunities and continue to travel to reach a secure and stable future),” it added.
Obstacles faced by students, teachers
The DepEd’s journey began with thoroughly analyzing the obstacles faced by teachers and students.
In January, a comprehensive Basic Education Report identified vital challenges.
Subsequently, the department launched the MATATAG agenda, specifically to solve basic education challenges in the country, especially for disadvantaged learners.
Under the agenda, DepEd established a procurement strand to streamline service delivery and resource acquisition to recognize the need for internal reform.
Additionally, a school infrastructure and facilities strand was created to tackle the shortage of classrooms and equipment.
These efforts resulted in the construction of 2201 classrooms, the preparation of 1274 classrooms, and the construction of 880 health facilities.
READ:
https://mb.com.ph/2023/01/30/deped-launches-matatag-agenda-to-resolve-challenges-in-basic-education/
This year, the department noted that 45 Last Mile School (LMS) classrooms have been completed, and other LMS construction is still ongoing at different sites.
“Asahan ninyong walang preno ang DepEd sa pagitan ng proyekto para sa kabataang pilipino (You may expect DepEd to have no brakes between projects for the Filipino youth).”
One of the department’s priorities is internet connectivity in schools.
Satellite internet was provided to 2000 schools, while 25 schools were selected for Starlink connections.
Meanwhile, DepEd also introduced Digital Education Learning Carts and mobile computer labs equipped with laptops, charging carts, and Smart TVs to enhance the learners’ learning experiences.
At the opening of the school year, DepEd immediately piloted the MATATAG curriculum in 35 schools in seven regions of the country.
Moreover, recognizing the impact of the pandemic on education, DepEd launched the National Learning Camp, an annual program open to all students to help them bridge learning gaps that will be conducted annually.
With a focus on creating a safe learning environment, DepEd launched the Learner Rights and Protection Office (LRPO) and the Learners TeleSafe Contact Center, which will offer vital support and a safe space for students facing abuse.
The department emphasized the importance of nutrition and food to students, which is why, in the last hearing for the 2024 budget, they pushed for additional funding for the School-Based Feeding Program to extend school feeding days.
Furthermore, in collaboration with Go Negosyo, school gardens will soon be launched nationwide to promote sustainability, where the students plant and take the plants home to their families.
Supporting teachers’ well-being
DepEd emphasized the significance of ensuring teachers’ well-being and job security in its journey, enabling them to focus solely on teaching.
“Guidelines for removing non-teaching tasks from teachers’ plates are expected before year-end, and dedicated administrative personnel are being hired to handle these duties,” DepEd said.
Furthermore, DepEd partnered with the Government Service Insurance Corporation (GSIS) to provide express lanes and dedicated account officers for its personnel, making financial transactions smoother.
READ:
Teachers and DepEd personnel can now also file a claim for their GSIS Personal Accident Insurance (GPAI) – which can cover accidental death and dismemberment of up to P100,000 and medical reimbursement features for accident-related injuries up to P30,000 – to alleviate expenses caused by work- and non-work-related accidents.
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With DepEd’s journey this year, the department expressed gratitude for the public’s continued support and emphasized their unwavering support in building a “matatag Philippines” together.
“Even with bumps on the roads, we will continue to take the challenge towards our dreams,” the department added.