In a significant move aimed at addressing the state of education in Iligan City, Mayor Siao spearheaded the inaugural Iligan City Education Summit held yesterday. The event was attended by esteemed figures discussing the State of Education in Iligan, including representatives from Synergia, the Local School Board, DepEd officials, dedicated educators, proactive Barangay officials, private organizations, and our commendable students.
Among the summit’s highlights was the identification of challenges hindering student learning, particularly in reading comprehension. Several issues were deliberated upon, accompanied by proposed solutions:
- Addressing the shortage of storybooks and reading materials through funding initiatives like the Reading Acceleration Program (RAPID) and Tri-People Education (TRIPED).
- Initiating health and nutrition programs for youth in collaboration with CSWD and Jollibee through the Busog Lusog Talino Program.
- Allocating budget for retooling and upskilling of teachers through the Local School Board’s training programs.
- Implementing incentives for students and teachers through Barangay initiatives.
- Tackling overcrowding in classrooms with support from DepEd.
- Advancing technological progress by introducing robotics, interactive TV, computers, and 3D printers.
- Incorporating local narratives such as the Legend of Maria Cristina Falls into educational materials.
- Providing opportunities for parental involvement through training and guidance programs.
- Initiating Free WiFi in schools, with considerations for StarLink connection in the future.
Mayor Siao urged all stakeholders to submit letters, suggestions, and plans for further discussion and inclusion in budget priorities. The commitment to collaboratively nurture a brighter future for our youth, equipping them with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world, was underscored. Education, Mayor Siao emphasized, is not just a priority but a promise to the next generation.
