ADDRESSING DIGITAL GAPS IN EDUCATION

ABYGAILE L. PANLAQUI

The Department of Science and Technology-Central Luzon (DOST-3) has awarded Starlink satellite internet service to 70 remote schools in Central Luzon, providing internet to Learners in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA), which could help address the digital gaps in the education sector. The DOST said Starlink, a satellitebased technology from SpaceX, will enable the 70 GIDA as well as indigenous peoples (IP) schools to connect to the digital world and give students access to a vast array of educational resources and connect with the global community. Starlink offers a lifeline to these remote schools, connecting them to the vast resources and opportunities available through the internet, the DOST said. In an era dominated by digital advancements, access to quality education is a challenge, especially for those learners in remote communities, the agency said. Promoting digital inclusion will level the playing field and enable students to pursue educational opportunities and gain vital skills and knowledge for a brighter future. No one should be left behind, the DOST said. The Starlink kit, complete with a satellite dish and router, was distributed to the school recipients plus a one-year free internet subscription under the Community Empowerment Thru Science and Technology (CEST), one of the banner programs of DOST. The DOST would shoulder the cost of connecting school recipients to Starlink and the one-year subscription. After one year, the schools have committed to pay the subscription expenses for continuous internet connectivity.

-oOoThe author is a Teacher I at Sta. Maria Elementary School