Additional funding for self-learning modules is on its way according to DepEd.
Funding for self-learning modules will be provided
The Department of Education answers about allegations on teachers asking for donations online to be used in funding for self-learning modules. Printing of self-learning modules to be used for modular learning has yet to be completed. With the scarcity of materials and funding, some teachers are already reaching out to the public for some support and donations.
During an online conference, DepEd Finance Undersecretary Annalyn Sevilla assured that the funding for self-learning modules is on its way and the department and doing every means possible to redirect more funding to it.
Among the modalities involved in DepEd’s blended learning, modular learning takes up the majority of the funding. The department is expecting to allot 65 billion for the whole Basic Education – Learning Continuity Plan (BE-LPC). Nine billion has already been released to DepEd district offices. While another 17 billion from the existing budget of the agency will be redirected to BE-LCP.
Donations are allowed
Teachers are taking into social media their call for donations. Most common materials teachers are asking for are bond papers, ink for printing, and binding materials.
According to Sevilla, the resourcefulness of teachers is admirable, donations are allowed and can be accounted for under the Brigada Eskwela program. However, transparency should always be observed, and monetary donations are discouraged.
With the extension of the expected date for reopening of classes, the DepEd is confident that it will meet the materials needed for blended learning, especially under the modular learning program.
The department is already finding ways to come up with immediate funding to be used for BE-LCP. Hopes are high that local funding in district offices are allocated properly to help teachers in preparation for the reopening of classes on October 5.
