While waiting for the implementation of its controversial Cyber Education project, the Department of Education will in the meantime use radio as a cheaper alternative to deliver education across the country.
The DepEd will be assisted by the Foundation for Information Technology Education and Development (FIT-ED) for the project called Education for All Through Radio (EFAR), which will tap content providers, broadcast media, educational institutions and other development organizations in delivering education to far-flung areas in the country.
The EFAR will be piloted in Cebu, Abra, Nueva Viscaya, Aklan , Dumaguete City, Northern Samar, Davao City , Davao Oriental, Island Garden City of Samal, and Panabo City.
According to DepEd regional director Carolino Mordeno, the project will start this month. Its beneficiaries are out-of-school youths, indigenous people, children and adults in remote communities, especially those that are in conflict-afflicted areas.
Teachers will also benefit from the EFAR as materials on teacher training and learners’ supplementary materials will be delivered.
The project, funded by the Coca-Cola Company, will focus on developing elementary curriculums that can be delivered through radio. Specific subjects are science, mathematics, English, health and environment.
Other partners are the University of the Philippines National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education and Development, and the Alternative Forum for Research in Mindanao. — Jasmine R. Uy/LPM