PH ranks 74th in global index; DepEd ramps up education reforms
The country ranked 74th out of 177 nations, scoring 56.32 out of 100 and was categorized under 'emerging and partial readiness.'
The index measures how well education systems are prepared to meet future challenges, citing issues such as governance, infrastructure, innovation, and equitable access.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said DepEd is focused on improving the system for both learners and educators.
'Pinapaganda natin ang sistema para maging mas maayos, mas makabago, at mas kapaki-pakinabang sa mga guro, magulang, at bata. Hindi ito madali, pero kailangang simulan at sabay-sabay nating gawin,' he said.
(We are improving the system so that it becomes more efficient, modern, and beneficial for teachers, parents, and children. This is not easy, but it must start now, and we must do it together.)
Among its initiatives is the creation of the Education Center for Artificial Intelligence Research (ECAIR), which aims to use AI and data science to address long-standing challenges in planning, management, and instruction.
Pilot projects include:
SIGLA – a mobile app to monitor student growth;
TALINO – a mapping tool for tracking private sector involvement;
DUNONG – a dashboard analyzing school leadership assessments;
SALIKSeek – an internal chatbot for faster access to education data;
SABAY and LIGTAS – tools for cognitive risk screening and geohazard monitoring, respectively.
DepEd said all AI initiatives are guided by an AI Governance Framework based on international standards to ensure ethical and responsible implementation.
The Department is also introducing Project Bukas, an open data initiative that aims to make information on enrollment, resources, and learning outcomes accessible to communities. The project seeks to promote transparency and improve local participation in education delivery.
In terms of curriculum reform, DepEd has worked with TESDA, CHED, and DOLE to revise the Senior High School (SHS) program. Technical-vocational qualifications are now being integrated into SHS tracks, and changes in hiring policies now allow SHS graduates to apply for entry-level civil service jobs.
The DepEd is also scaling up digital access through programs like PSIP Connect, which provides solar power, satellite internet, and devices to underserved schools, and the Bayanihan SIM Program, which offers connectivity support to students and teachers in remote areas. — BAP, GMA Integrated News
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