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IMPROVING the quality of Science and Technology education in the
country remains the Department of Education’s priority as it
allotted P1 million in annual subsidies for 17 regional science high
schools (RSHS) and a variable allocation of P2,000 for every student
to augment the school’s maintenance and other operating expenses,
totaling to over P29 million.
“If we are to nurture a cadre of future
scientists and leaders, we need to fully support our RSHS which have
enriched science, mathematics and English curricula,” said
Education Secretary Jesli Lapus.
“We need to empower our RSHS for it to
stimulate and challenge our students to be more creative and primed
to meet the challenges of the 21st century, “Lapus added.
The bulk of the augmented operating expenses, or
25 percent, will go to the training and professional upgrading of
all teachers, principals, and officers-in-charge directly managing
the science schools, including their attendance in seminars that may
be sponsored by the Education department or other agencies. It will
also defray expenses for students’ participation in science and
mathematics-related activities.
The procurement of science and mathematics
equipment, including the maintenance and repair of previously owned
equipment, and upgrading of computers and printers would account for
20 percent, while 10 percent of the amount has been earmarked for
supplies and materials for science, mathematics and English, and
maintenance of science and computer laboratories.
A total of 15 percent is for the purchase of
instructional materials including textbooks/reference books for
science, mathematics, English and other subject areas, professional
books, video materials and software in science, mathematics and
English, including internet subscriptions.
The rest of the funding will go to electricity
and water bills, subsidy for student researches or projects and for
essential services such as security.
-- James Konstantin Galvez
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