MindanaoToday.com | PLDT, Smart School-in-a-Bag packages reach remote Mindanao communities
LEARNERS in hard-to-reach areas in Mindanao receive inclusive and equitable quality education through the PLDT Group’s flagship education program – School-in-a-Bag (SIAB).
PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), through their social outreach arm PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF), have partnered with FiberHome Philippines and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to ensure no learner is left behind.
“True to our vision of a connected, empowered, and progressive Philippines, PSF recognizes the role of the youth in nation-building. The SIAB is a life-changing initiative for learners especially in underserved communities. We are grateful to share this passion with our partners,” said Esther O. Santos, PSF President.
Each SIAB package includes a laptop and Smart LTE Pocket WiFi for teachers, ten tablets for students, educational apps in local languages, a guide for teachers, as well as learning materials stored in flash drives.
Accompanying each SIAB deployment is an orientation to the PLDT and Smart-supported Central Visayan Institute Foundation Dynamic Learning Program (CVIF DLP).
The crisis-resilient teaching strategy helps develop independent learners with the help of the CVIF DLP Learning Activity Sheets.
“The School-in-a-Bag and the CVIF Dynamic Learning Program work hand-in-hand to help improve the country’s basic education program. This highlights the PLDT Group’s commitment to reach learners in remote areas,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart.
In celebration of PSF’s 30th anniversary, FiberHome supported PLDT and Smart’s efforts to expand learning platforms in geographically challenged communities by sponsoring four SIAB packages that were turned over to DICT.
The SIAB packages are being deployed in geographically isolated and disadvantaged and conflict-affected areas in Mindanao. The internationally renowned provider of information and communication network products and solutions had previously donated 17 SIAB packages to PSF.
“Through our products and services, FiberHome helps facilitate communication and exchange of information to connect Filipinos to the global community. The School-in-a-Bag program brings relevant information to young learners even in far-flung communities so learning continues despite their circumstances,” said Johnny Jiang, FiberHome Philippines CEO.
The School-in-a-Bag highlights PLDT, Smart and PSF’s commitment to inclusive quality education through Information and Communications Technology, content, pedagogy, and capacity building to ensure that there is #NoLearnerLeftBehind. This initiative is also aligned with the UNSDG 4 on Quality Education.
For inquiries about SIAB, kindly send an email to learnsmart@smart.com.ph. (PR)
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