Press Material / News

DepEd Extends Gratitude to Partners

For its leadership in information technology and education, STI Foundation received an award during the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Mapping of Partner’s Programs and Adopt-A-School Partners Appreciation last Friday, June 10, at the Meralco Multi-purpose Hall, Ortigas, Pasig City.

As one of the biggest partners, STI provided physical space in its campuses nationwide to accommodate out-of-school-youths who aspire to finish their secondary education. STI campuses served as community learning centers (CLCs) in the delivery of DepEd’s Alternative Learning System (ALS) under the Abot-Alam program. Apart from the classrooms, STI shared necessary computer units and other equipment for the conduct of eSkwela and offered assistance or manpower in ALS sessions on Information Technology. 

CAPTION: Present to receive the certificate of appreciation were STI Vice Chairman and CEO Monico V. Jacob, Executive Director for STI Foundation Connie Sablay, and Public Relations Manager Erick Listana.

The event was considered a very special occasion for the outgoing members of DepEd. In his remarks, Undersecretary for Partnerships and Linkages Mario Derequito said, “We are awed, amazed, and grateful at the convergence of support that education has received over the past six years. It has been both a joy and a privilege to work with people and organizations like you. I hope and pray that you continue to support the cause of education because our children and our youth deserve our heroic best.”

The outgoing DepEd Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro also took his speech as an opportunity to convey his heartfelt appreciation to partners through their extensive support and assistance in reinforcing DepEd’s initiatives.

“Change is coming but real change happens because of ordinary Filipinos like you and me, all willing to move things around. I leave DepEd not with a heavy heart, but with great memories of great people. I remember all of you in snip and anecdotes of the times you go and visit our farthest schools. The little joys that you bring to the farthest students who have not been reached by government service will always be remembered by them. On behalf of 24 million learners, this past six years, I share with you our profound gratitude for what you have done.”

Bro. Armin encouraged the partners to keep on supporting DepEd for all the great work that they have accomplished for the Filipino youth. “I pray that you will continue to do more of the same if not exceed what we have done, even in the next administration. After all, our partnership goes beyond leaders, our partnership is truly focused on learners who will forever be grateful to you,” he added.

DepEd and STI have also entered into a partnership called “Computer Laboratory on Wheels” (STI Mobile School) which aims to provide students with a foundation on computer literacy and to teach them to use basic information and communications technology (ICT) tools. STI Mobile Schools are equipped with state-of-the-art computer laboratories with internet access, LCD monitors, and sound systems. Each bus has 24 computer units. Teachers of STI Mobile School will educate public school students about Computer Concepts, Application Software, and ICT training.

With mutual goals and commitment to educate as many Filipino learners as possible, STI will carry on supporting the Department’s endeavors in reaching out to more learners.

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