Aquino cites role of teachers in nation-building
PRESIDENT Benigno S. Aquino III underscored the important role that the teachers play in nation-building as he led the country in honoring the 500,000 teachers nationwide.
The President was the keynote speaker at the celebration of the World Teachers ‘ Day with the theme “Our Teachers, Our Heroes” held at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City on Tuesday.
The Chief Executive, in recognizing the sacrifices and dedication of teachers in performing their duties, vowed to improve the country’s quality of education and to push for a comprehensive program that will benefit them.
He pointed out that his administration’s top priority is quality education saying that in the 2011 Reform Budget, funds were allotted for teacher-training programs, more classrooms and other educational needs.
The President reiterated his campaign promise to fight corruption and make sure that funds are effectively allotted.
He explained that the Department of Education and Development came up with a list of regions that lack classrooms which will be the basis for identifying the areas that urgently need more classrooms.
The President also said the government will help private schools survive the lack of enrollees through the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education. The program gives financial assistance to poor but deserving students for them to be able to enroll in private schools. This will decongest public schools while helping private schools to survive.
He likewise expressed support to the National Competency-Based Teachers Standards of the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education in a move to improve further the competency of teachers. (PCOO/PIA)
