To promote a better understanding of the role of language in promoting inclusion and literacy, the Department of Education (DepEd) will hold a language and inclusion summit next week.
(DepEd file photo)
“The Language and Inclusion Summit envisions the true realization of inclusion in education by placing a premium on the richness of our language and celebrating the diversity of our country,” DepEd said in a memorandum signed by Undersecretary Gina Gonong.
The Department of Education (DepEd), through the Curriculum and Teaching Strand, in partnership with USAI D ABC+, will conduct the Language and Inclusion Summit with the theme, Language and Inclusion: Promoting Diversity, Inclusivity, and Equity for all Filipino learners, on May 19 to 20 in Pasay City.
DepEd said the summit will present action points and recommendations from the Language and Inclusion Pre-Summit held on May 4 to 5.
The summit will also feature plenary sessions, panel discussions, presentations, and exhibits that aim to promote a better understanding of the role of language in promoting inclusion and literacy.
Aside from presenting empirical data on the importance of language and inclusion, DepEd said the summit also aims to “promote a better understanding of the first language-based multilingual education and the role of languages in promoting inclusion and literacy.”
The summit will also showcase initiatives and good practices on the implementation of language and inclusion policies and programs (Mother-Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE), Special Needs Education (SNEd), Madrasah Education, Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd), an Alternative Learning System [ALS]).
During the summit, DepEd also hoped to gather commitment from stakeholders to support the implementation of language and inclusion policies and programs.
DepEd said that summit is in line with its strong commitments articulated in Basic Education Development Plan (BEDP 2030) on addressing learning loss along the pillars of access, equity, quality, well-being, and resilience.
It is also aligned with the “MATATAG: Bansang Makabata, Batang Makabansa” Agenda on promoting learner well-being, inclusive education, and a positive learning environment.
The summit is expected to contribute much toward strengthening the DepEd’s language and inclusion programs by presenting evidence-based data or inputs and research on the significance of language and inclusion as well as proposed solutions and policy recommendations to “proactively address the lingering issues and challenges in program implementation.”
DepEd said the summit will be participated by its officials, instructional leaders, field implementers, program partners or organizations, legislators, policy or decision-makers, and other stakeholders regarded as champions and advocates of language and inclusion nationwide.