MANILA, Philippines: The results of the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) for the Philippines reveal a challenging reality for the country’s education system, as highlighted by Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte.
The PISA 2022 results indicate that the Philippines performed below the average set by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). In mathematics, the country scored 355 points, while in reading and science, it obtained 347 and 356 points, respectively.
According to the OECD, this year’s average scores were comparable to the 2018 results achieved by the Philippines.
In her recorded message at the PISA Forum on Wednesday, Duterte emphasized that the results provide the Department of Education (DepEd) with valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the education system.
“The PISA results may reveal an uncomfortable truth. They indicate that a significant majority of our boys and girls fall below the proficiency level required for full participation in society and contributing to nation-building,” Duterte stated.
She further emphasized that the results not only reflect the state of the education system but also serve as a mirror reflecting the collective efforts, investments, and the government’s commitment to education and the future of Filipino children.
Duterte acknowledged the DepEd’s significant strides in addressing learning issues among Filipino children. These efforts include the implementation of the Matatag curriculum, the National Reading, Science, and Mathematics program, and the introduction of catch-up Fridays, among others.
“Moving forward, we need every stakeholder to join us on this journey. While our approaches to finding solutions may differ, we all share the same destination. Every individual’s efforts count, and everyone is accountable for our children’s future,” Duterte urged.
The PISA 2022 results shed light on the challenges faced by the Philippine education system. It is essential to understand that education plays a crucial role in shaping the future of any nation.
While the results may be disheartening, they serve as a call to action for all stakeholders, including the government, educators, parents, and the community at large, to come together and work towards improving the quality of education in the country.
Addressing the weaknesses in the education system requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves not only enhancing the curriculum and teaching methods but also providing adequate resources, support, and professional development opportunities for teachers.
Moreover, it is crucial to foster a culture of lifelong learning, where education is seen as a continuous process beyond the confines of the classroom. This can be achieved through promoting extracurricular activities, encouraging critical thinking, and nurturing a love for learning.
Furthermore, it is essential to address the underlying factors that contribute to the disparities in educational outcomes. These may include poverty, access to quality education, and socio-economic barriers that hinder equal opportunities for all students.
International best practices and experiences can serve as valuable references for the Philippines. By studying successful education systems around the world, the country can gain insights into effective strategies and policies that have yielded positive results.
Ultimately, improving the education system requires a collective effort and a long-term commitment from all stakeholders. It is a journey that requires continuous evaluation, adaptation, and innovation to ensure that every Filipino child receives a quality education that prepares them for the challenges of the future.
The PISA 2022 results serve as a wake-up call and an opportunity for the Philippines to make significant improvements in its education system. By addressing the identified weaknesses and capitalizing on the strengths, the country can pave the way for a brighter future for its students and the nation as a whole.
Source: The Manila Times
