Education is a very important aspect in our lives. It has an indispensable role in both the citizens of our country and our society itself. This is the reason why K to 12 program or the Republic Act 10533 Enhanced Basic Education Act is now on its full implementation. As stated in the law, the goal of the new curriculum is to create a functional basic education system that will produce productive and responsible citizens equipped with the essential competencies and skills for both life-long learning and employment. Department of Education (DepEd) has undergone a vigorous preparation to provide adequate and sufficient materials to educational institutions as senior high school starts now. The enhanced education act is a blessing and also a challenge.
It is a blessing because one of its aim is to give students quality education that they will not only need as preparation for tertiary education but more importantly, for their future career in the professional world. The program will not only teach students to be academically prepared but it will also train students to acquire vocational and technical skills which they can apply in practical and professional use. Because of this, the students can now apply for national and international jobs without fear of being rejected or ignored. The education program targets to create a holistic preparation for the students before they embark in the international landscape.
However, as it gives gains, it also gives challenges. As expected, parents are quick to protest as the program also means that families need money to help the students. It means extra effort and time from them. Some non-governmental groups and organizations even assembled rallies to stop the law. Also, the initial response was that Philippine schools lack classrooms, teachers, books, educational materials, and facilities to supplement the teaching-learning process in institutions.
Indeed, there are advantages and disadvantages to this program. Nothing ever comes absolutely good and absolutely bad. Yet with the full implementation of the program, the only thing that we need to do is to support this change—give the best that we can—and wait for the results to happen. Whatever it may be, one thing is for sure: this program is aimed to produce highly productive Filipino youth for the betterment of our society.
By: Marey E. Cezar
