Australia Supports flagship DepEd program, builds Alternative Learning Centre prototype in Samar

Australia Supports flagship DepEd program, builds Alternative Learning Centre prototype in Samar

Eastern Samar, 3 May 2019 – Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Steven J. Robinson AO, attended the launch of the newly completed Alternative Learning System – Education and Skill Training (ALS-EST) Learning Centre in Lawaan, Eastern Samar. 

The Australian Government, through the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), supported the design of the prototype and the construction of the first ALS-EST Centre.

“Australia is pleased to support the Department of Education’s flagship ALS-EST program. It is an important way to provide education opportunities to equip out of school youth with skills to help them find work.” Ambassador Robinson said.

The Alternative Learning System (ALS) is an initiative of the Department of Education to educate young Filipinos who are unable to access formal school, and adults unable to complete formal schooling. The ALS also offers a Basic Literacy Program and Equivalency Program, which allows for non-formal instruction across all learning competencies, helping students to complete basic education.

The ALS-EST Centre provides a customized learning space for ALS-EST skills training. It also provides flexible class schedules to help more students to attend lessons. The Centre houses a lecture room with e-learning stations and a mini-library, technical-vocational training room, child-care area, and two disability accessible toilets.

Australian Government is commited to strengthen the Philippine education system and will fund the construction of four additional ALS-EST Centres. A Labour Market Study is underway to ensure that the Centres provide graduates with skills that meet the needs of the local economy.