'Wake-up call': Searing summer heat highlights need for well-ventilated classrooms, says Castro
At A Glance
- The searing heat this summer should serve as a "wake-up call" for the government to respond to the students' needs, ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro said on Tuesday, April 2.
- Castro says that the situation calls for immediate action to address the lack of infrastructure and insufficient ventilation systems in schools.
ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro (PPAB)
The searing heat this summer should serve as a "wake-up call" for the government to respond to the students' needs, ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro said on Tuesday, April 2.
Castro says that the situation calls for immediate action to address the lack of infrastructure and insufficient ventilation systems in schools.
"The current heat index experienced by our students and teachers should serve as a wake-up call to prioritize the construction of additional classrooms and the improvement of ventilation systems in our schools," said the Makabayan solon.
"It is unjust for our learners and educators to suffer in unbearable conditions that directly affect their health, well-being, and academic performance," stressed Castro.
She further noted that the lack of adequate infrastructure not only affects the physical comfort of students and teachers but also infringes upon their right to quality education.
Proper learning environments are crucial for the holistic development and success of students, said the teacher-solon.
The ACT Teachers party-list representative called on the Department of Education (DepEd) and the government to swiftly address this pressing issue by allocating sufficient funds for the construction of new classrooms and the improvement of ventilation systems in schools nationwide.
The budget for education should at least be equivalent to 6 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country based on UN recommendations.
Castro also urged the DepEd to conduct regular inspections and maintenance of existing facilities to ensure a conducive learning environment for all.
"We cannot delay the provision of adequate infrastructure any longer. It is the responsibility of the government, particularly the DepEd, to prioritize the well-being and learning conditions of our students and teachers. Investing in the construction of more classrooms and improving ventilation systems is an investment in the future of our nation," she said.