INCLUSIVITY: ADDRESSING EDUCATIONAL DISPARITIES

The imperative role of education in shaping the trajectory of an individual's life is beyond dispute. Education, undoubtedly, exerts a positive influence on human existence, enabling individuals to acquire knowledge and broaden their perspectives on the world. The correlation between enhanced education and societal progress is evident, as communities with access to quality education tend to lead more prosperous lives. The indispensable nature of education is underscored by its capacity to garner respect and recognition, playing an integral role both personally and socially. However, the persistent challenge of unequal education standards remains a significant hurdle that demands resolution. While education profoundly impacts lives, regional disparities in average education levels persist. Efforts are underway to address this issue, emphasizing the need for universal and equitable education, especially for the underprivileged and disabled. The current discrepancy in educational opportunities is a pressing concern that societies are striving to rectify, recognizing education as a cornerstone for a nation's advancement. Unfortunately, cultural differences and biases related to religious practices further compound the challenges in educational experiences. In particular, Muslim pupils often face difficulties integrating into predominantly Christian communities, leading to feelings of marginalization and alienation in the educational landscape. Muslim Filipino parents advocate for a holistic education that nurtures their children to be not only responsible citizens but also devout followers of Islam. The integration of the ALIVE program as an inclusive educational tool for Muslim Filipino children has been instrumental in addressing this need. This program, designed to instil Islamic values and teachings, has garnered support from parents who view it as a vital instrument for raising devout Muslim offspring. In accordance with DepEd order No. 41 series 2017, which upholds citizens' rights to freedom of religion and prohibits discrimination based on sex, religion, creed, or color, all schools are obligated to safeguard and strengthen the rights of pupils. Public schools with a minimum of fifteen (15) Muslim Filipino students are encouraged to adopt the ALIVE program, offering classes in Arabic language and Islamic principles alongside the standard basic education curriculum. San Isidro Resettlement Elementary School, with a total enrolment of one hundred and seventy-one (171) Muslim pupils, has successfully instituted the ALIVE program through its Project Islam. This initiative caters to the holistic educational needs of Muslim learners, offering the ALIVE program once a week. The program is tailored to address the imperative requirement for pupils to attain a comprehensive Islamic education. The school recognizes the equal importance of both academic knowledge and Islamic education, understanding that Muslim pupils may struggle to embody principles they do not comprehend. Emphasizing the significance of Islamic teachings in shaping identity, San Isidro Resettlement Elementary School highlights that Muslim pupils can truly grasp their sense of self through the teachings of Islam. Additionally, the school acknowledges the financial challenges faced by some parents, particularly those who cannot afford to send their children to Torel. In response, the school encourages enrolment in madrasah as a cost-free alternative, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to contemplate Islamic education, regardless of financial constraints. The implementation of inclusive education initiatives, such as the ALIVE program, reflects a commitment to creating a learning environment that respects and accommodates diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. As we move forward, it is essential to ensure that education becomes a beacon of inclusivity, fostering an atmosphere where every child has equal access to knowledge and an opportunity to thrive.

author is Teacher

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II at San Isidro Resettlement Elementary School Magalang North