Philippine schools gain IT upgrade

The schools are being outfitted under the Global Filipino Schools (GFS) programme.
The GFS program is part of a long-term partnership between Globe Telecom and the Department of Education meant to forward 21st-century learning principles and ICT integration in public schools nationwide. It aims to transform public high schools into ICT centres of excellence by equipping students and teachers with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed for the 21st century.
Ahead of their 2020 target, Globe and the department brought the programme to all 17 regions in the Philippines, with ARMM as its final leg.
Over the past week, program officers from department divisions and teaching representatives from select public elementary and high schools gathered for a four-day teacher training workshop in Cotabato City. Each of the nine school divisions in ARMM was represented in the workshop. A virtual coaching course for all participants will also be held to help them with mastery and application of the learnings.
“Many young Filipinos are unable to make the most of advancement in digital technology when compared with other countries. Through innovative teaching methods and integration of ICT in classrooms, teachers and school leaders can significantly increase the quality of learning in the public sector. This is the main goal of GFS,” said Yoly Crisanto, chief sustainability officer and senior vice president for corporate communications at Globe.
Through the GFS programme, schools received free internet connectivity; as well as ICT tools like tablets, projectors, virtual reality (VR) goggles, casting dongles, pocket wifi devices, and a mobile cart. Most importantly, partner schools also received an intensive teacher training program on 21st-century learning approach, ICT integration in classrooms, as well as content responsible digital citizenship.