In Albay: Multi-stakeholder approach launched
To boost early grade learning
LEGAZPI CITY --- Governor Edcel ‘Grex’ Lagman on Tuesday led the launching of the Education Sector Mechanism (ESM), a localized multi-stakeholder approach to plan, design, invest, and implement interventions to boost early grade learning (EGL) in the Province of Albay.
“Because of COVID-19, our learners have had a lot of catching up to do. We need all the help we can get to ensure that our children are able to do just that. This is why, as governor, and on behalf of the Provincial Government, we want to express our support and commitment to the implementation of the Education Sector Mechanism in Albay,” said Albay Province Governor Edcel ‘Grex’ Lagman.
He added “It is my personal dream and lifelong commitment to see quality education for all of us as I believe that this is the key to safety and security, strengthened competency, fulfilled potentials, and realized skills of the Albayano learners who will also one day become successful contributors to the development of society. I stand here today representing the strength and resources of that Albay has to offer to make this dream a reality.”
Held at Pepperland Events Centre in Legazpi City, the launch was attended by representatives from the Department of Education (DepEd), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), private sector, parent and community groups, and other education stakeholders.
Lagman during the event signed an executive order (EO) adopting the ESM process in the province that supports the operationalization of a multi-stakeholder approach, thereby encouraging increased and active participation of local education stakeholders in planning, implementing, and evaluating education programs in the province.
Through the ESM, resources are mobilized and managed to give focus to early grade children (Kindergarten to Grade 3) to improve their learning outcomes especially on reading, math, and socio-emotional skills. The local government and DepEd lead the process with input and commitment from civil society organizations, parents, communities, and the private sector.
The said mechanism is led by DepEd in partnership with USAID’s ABC+: Advancing Basic Education in the Philippines project. The Asia Foundation (TAF) and the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP) also serve as project implementers.
“USAID recognizes that achieving sustainable solutions to challenges in education and beyond requires close collaboration, not only with the Department of Education, but also with other stakeholders such as the local governments, the private sector, local communities, and other civic organizations,” said Thomas LeBlanc, USAID Philippines’ Director of the Office of Education.
“Our partnership is vital to strengthening early grade learning in the region. With your support, we can all work together and mutually complement each other’s efforts, so that no child is left behind,” he added.
DepEd also welcomed the provincial government’s move to adopt the ESM. “It is my honor to sincerely express our commitment to make this work and be added marker of success in sustaining and addressing learning continuity,” said DepEd Albay Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Jeany Abayon.
The event was also attended by Tabaco City Mayor Krisel Lagman, Albay Chamber of Commerce, Inc. President Rosemarie Quinto-Rey, and ABC+ Chief of Party Ina Aquino.