P1.9-B program to help DepEd expand digital tools for remote schools

The Department of Education (DepEd) launched the Computerization Program (DCP) to strengthen efforts to improve digital learning in remote schools in the country.

In a news release, DepEd said many remote schools previously relied on handwritten lesson materials due to a lack of technology. Teachers had to manually create visual aids and compute student grades.

“With new laptops, tablets, and smart TVs now reaching schools, teachers can use design software to create lessons more efficiently. This shift is expected to improve lesson planning and student engagement,” the department said.

A total of 64,816 laptops and smart TV packages valued at P1.913 billion are being distributed across 16 regions. The goal is to address the 69.3% of schools with an insufficient student-to-device ratio.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara stressed the importance of this initiative.

“This partnership with Google is not just an upgrade; it’s a major step toward making education more accessible and efficient for teachers and students,” he said.

“The digitalization push aims to provide better learning experiences for students in remote schools. Tablets, in particular, help students research assignments and access digital materials for subjects like science,” the department added.

Despite budget reductions for 2025, DepEd remains committed to providing schools with technology that enhances learning. These devices are expected to be delivered by the second half of the year.

DepEd also secured one million Google Education Plus accounts for teachers and non-teaching staff. This platform will allow access to digital tools like Google Classroom, Google Meet, and AppSheet.

The new system is designed to simplify tasks such as attendance tracking and grade computation. It also integrates with online resources like Khan Academy, further supporting digital learning.

The nationwide expansion of digital tools will allow more schools to adapt to modern teaching methods, improving education quality in underserved areas, Angara said. —RF, GMA Integrated News