DEPED, DOST INK PACT TO FURTHER SCIENCE, MATH EDUCATION OF TEACHERS, LEARNERS

The Department of Education (DepEd) and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the Capacity Building Program in Science and Mathematics Education.

This partnership will further strengthen the collaboration between DepEd and DOST, through Science Education Institute (SEI), in providing opportunities for Science and Mathematics public secondary school teachers nationwide to pursue their master’s or doctoral degrees through the DOST-SEI Graduate Scholarship Programs.

Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones underscored the importance of teachers in making Science and Mathematics more exciting and less difficult. She said the teacher makes the difference in making Science and Mathematics exciting subjects, and in erasing the notion that these learning areas are difficult and intimidating.

The partnership with DOST will allow students to reach their full potential through the enhanced knowledge and improved skills that teachers may impart to them.

According to the DOST-SEI, the Institute is initiating efforts in contributing to the advancement of education in the country, including the offering of scholarships in Science and Technology at the undergraduate level.

In 2018, a total of 8,994 learners qualified for the undergraduate scholarship program – 914 learners of which are from the Philippine Science High School, 5,457 from other public schools, and 2,623 from private schools.

DOST SEI also conducts researches on Science and Technology Human Resources, and various science promotion activities – science camps, science fairs, robotics competitions, etc. – to encourage young people to love science and pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers.

The DepEd also highlighted how partnerships help the Department in the delivery of quality, accessible, relevant, and liberating basic education for all.

The DepEd, through its External Partnerships Service (EPS), has been engaging the private sector and national government agencies to promote the value of education, collaboration, and worthwhile investments in nation building.

These partnerships enable them to do more for learners and give more venues to people where they can work together in providing learners’ immediate needs.