DepEd proposes connectivity allowance for SHS teachers, students in 2021

In order to support distance learning in the country, the Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday proposed that a connectivity allowance be given to Senior High School teachers and students in 2021.

According to a statement on Thursday, Education Secretary Leonor Briones asked for a P4 billion from the Department of Budget and Management to cover the implementation of Digital Education, Information Technology and Digital Infrastructure, and Alternative Learning Modalities.

The fund will also cover the connectivity load of around 3.2 million students and 900,000 teachers across the country amid the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, wherein teachers will receive a P400 monthly load while students will receive a P250 monthly load within three months.

“We recognize the importance of load allowance for our learners and teachers to deliver quality education despite these challenging times due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Briones said.

“With support from our Congress and the DBM, we shall continue to push for more financial assistance to our stakeholders,” she added.

Meanwhile, Undersecretary Alain Del Pascua said the connectivity load will allow teachers to download videos and communicate with their students.

“’Pag may connectivity load na, pwede na kayong magdownload ng [educational] videos or mas makausap pa ang inyong mga estudyante,” Del Pascua said.

DepEd said P400 million will also be allocated to the creation of learning materials for DepEd Commons while P200 million will be allocated to DepEd TV and Radio.

Meanwhile, P150 million will be given for the printing and the delivery of self-learning modules while P50 million will be allocated for the creation of 2,000 radio transmitters in Last Mile Schools. — Joahna Lei Casilao/BM, GMA News