Address learning crisis, poll bets told

Candidates in the May midterm polls should present their plans to address the learning crisis and commit to prioritizing education in their agenda, according to the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd).

- NEIL JAYSON SERVALLOS

“Future leaders should lay out concrete plans to improve the conditions for all education stakeholders, including teachers, students, parents, local governments, the private sector and civil society organizations,” said PBEd executive director Justine Raagas.

PBEd cited the findings of the Second Congressional Commission on Education, calling for urgent action on the country’s biggest educational challenges.

Grade 3 students are reportedly at least a year behind in curriculum expectations, but are still allowed to move up to Grade 4, the group said.

“These learning gaps worsened in later years, as the commission found that Grades 8 and 9 students continue to struggle with basic subtraction and multiplication,” PBEd said.

Dropouts remain a concern amid financial issues, employment and lack of interest, the group noted.