DepEd acknowledges external partners for the support of its BE-LCP program

During the virtual Handang Isip, Handa Bukas press conference, Education Secretary Leonor Briones praised and commended the external partners of the Department of Education (DepEd) for supporting and helping the department's Basic Education-Learning Continuity Plan (BE-LCP) program. The education system shifted to distance or blending learning because of the current health crisis.

Photo credit: deped.gov.ph

As the school opening is nearing, help from different private sectors, local government units, several countries and some individuals extend their kindness to our learners.

It is wonderful to feel that DepEd is not alone,

Briones said.

Education is everyone’s business so we are very pleased and touched with the degree of support we get from our external partners,

she added.

During the briefing, UNICEF Philippines Chief of Education Isy Faingold disclosed that they are preparing materials that would be helpful to some support of DepEd’s BE-LCP.

Through DepEd Commons, UNICEF is also converting contents into interactive e-books to reach a wider audience that have access to technology and has been helping in the capacity building for teachers and parents.

Faingold noted that the COVID-19 is the most complex challenge that the education system has faced so far. 

We have not seen such a challenge and given this, we need to work together and be a part of the solution,

he added.

Philippine National University (PNU) is partnering with DepEd on various professional development initiatives to help and make sure that teachers are prepared to the challenges brought by the pandemic.

PNU president Dr. Bert Tuga explained that there are customized programs for teachers and other specialists. PNU Vice President for Academics Jennie Jocson added that there also are various professional development programs and courses for teachers under the PNU-DepEd partnership.

Research Center for Teacher Quality (RCTQ) Director Dr. Gina Gonong assured that they continue to provide research and technical assistance to DepEd through the National Education Teachers Academy (NEAP) especially in the induction for new teachers.

The department is thankful for all the support and help that they have received despite the worries of many of the learning continuity plan.