The Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) formalized its partnership to boost STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in the Philippines.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), effective for four years, outlines efforts to address key areas such as teacher training, curriculum development, student engagement, resource sharing, and data-driven research, with the goal of improving scientific literacy and promoting innovation in basic education.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara and Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. signed the MOU, with DepEd Undersecretary Atty. Fatima Lipp Panontongan and DOST Undersecretary Maridon Sahagun serving as witnesses.
“This is a significant step in redeveloping the science and technology curriculum, enhancing learner engagement, and strengthening school networks and resources for research,” Angara stressed.
The partnership prioritizes nurturing Filipino students’ creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while enhancing the professional capacities of STEM educators.
The partnership prioritizes nurturing Filipino students’ creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while enhancing the professional capacities of STEM educators.
Specific initiatives include learner development programs, scholarships, and mentoring opportunities where DOST experts will directly engage with schools.
Teacher education and capacity-building efforts will also play a central role, ensuring that educators are equipped with the latest knowledge and methodologies in STEM teaching.
DepEd will take the lead in identifying participating schools, providing access to resources and facilities, and ensuring that all initiatives align with its policies and curriculum standards.
DOST will deploy scientists and researchers as resource persons.
Meanwhile, DOST will deploy scientists and researchers as resource persons, develop teaching tools and platforms, and provide access to its facilities to enhance STEM learning.
Both agencies have committed to monitoring and evaluating the implementation of joint activities, with regular feedback mechanisms to ensure the success of the programs.
