By Glenn A. Tahanlangit
Education Program Supervisor
DepEd-Talisay City
“Knowledge is something which no one can take away from anyone.”
Our quest for knowledge starts from the moment we learn how to talk as we were taught by our parents. There is more to life than talking is not enough for one to survive. We were sent to school and many things had been imparted to us together with those hungry for knowledge. The essence of education as embedded in our system is much appreciated and acknowledged that a higher position in a private company or in a public service requires a higher degree of educational attainment. As part of the academe for two decades I have witnessed the challenges and even struggles of the implementers for a better educational system. None of those challenges however, can be compared to the severity that this pandemic has brought to the educational system of the country. How to continue classes amidst the threat of infection? How schoolchildren or students be protected from the being infected with the deadly disease? These are some of the questions calling for immediate answers.
The threats posed by the pandemic are imminent and cannot be ignored. But just how education has taught us how to formulate strategies, mechanisms, or measures to address a concern, the educational sector proved us that the knowledge gained leads to better solution. Online or modular classes are some of these strategies. The mechanisms of how these strategies are to be implemented is clear and well ventilated. A school year has passed and its fulfilling to witness virtual graduations or moving-up ceremonies. Despite the threat of the pandemic, education continues to flourish. Schoolchildren and students continue to learn and move a step up. There is no space for passivity and stagnation. Only love for learning and growth.
Implementation of the strategies are faced with challenges and criticisms which made it more meaningful and it opens an area for improvement and innovation. These challenges and criticisms have been perceived the moment the strategies were conceptualized. Thus, they are not to be left untreated, rather, they serve as the factors to be considered in assessing and evaluating the areas for improvement. The pandemic changed the way education are being glimpsed. It also uncovered the portal of different opportunities. It proved that learnings need not be face to face but can be done remotely and continuously. It gives families the involvement in their children’s academic affairs when parents need to look into the output of their children and monitor it. Admittedly, it was hard but the quest for knowledge is inevitable that it should be highlighted as the plight of education in this time of pandemic.