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USAID and DepEd are collaborating to enhance reading literacy in the Philippines for out-of-school youth through the ALS Summit at SEAMEO INNOTECH. The summit, themed “Preparing the Filipino Learners for Lifelong Learning,” showcased DepEd’s efforts, supported by USAID’s Opportunity 2.0 (O2) program, to strengthen the Alternative Learning System (ALS). This initiative aims to provide basic education and lifelong learning opportunities for marginalized youth and adults, aligning with the ALS 2.0 strategic roadmap mandated by Republic Act 11510.
The ALS Summit emphasized DepEd’s commitment to reform and improve ALS as a credible alternative to formal education. Usec. Gina Gonong highlighted the system’s milestones under the ALS Act, stressing its role in providing functional literacy and equipping learners for higher education and better jobs. She underscored the need for continuous partnership to enhance access and quality within the ALS framework.
USAID’s Role in Lifelong Learning Opportunities
Acting Mission Director Rebekah Eubanks reiterated USAID’s support, noting ALS’s crucial role in reintegrating learners into the education system and enhancing their life opportunities. She emphasized the importance of ALS in facilitating pathways for learners to obtain formal education equivalency, thereby improving their prospects for higher education and employment.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian emphasized the collaborative effort required to fully implement ALS, citing the importance of standards and accreditation in expanding ALS’s reach and impact. Congressman Roman T. Romulo echoed these sentiments, advocating for ALS’s focus on functional literacy, particularly reading comprehension, as mandated by RA 11510.
Innovations in ALS Curriculum: Empowering Learners
Aligned with DepEd’s MATATAG curriculum, the O2 program has collaborated closely with DepEd’s Bureau of Alternative Education (BAE) to develop Self-Directed ALS Life Skills Modules and a Professional Development Course for ALS Teachers. Additionally, the program facilitated the ALS 2.0 Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) System Operations Handbook to enhance program management and effectiveness.
Moving forward, USAID’s Opportunity 2.0 Program will continue to support DepEd in strengthening education systems that cater to out-of-school youth and adults, promoting lifelong learning opportunities across the Philippines. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of ALS in fostering inclusivity and resilience within the Philippine education landscape.
In conclusion, the ALS Summit highlighted significant strides in enhancing reading literacy in the Philippines through collaborative efforts between USAID and DepEd. Stakeholders aim to empower marginalized youth and adults with essential skills and opportunities for lifelong learning by focusing on reforms and innovations within the ALS framework.
