DepEd, NEA to Bring Electricity to Last Mile Schools

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In a landmark move to bridge the educational divide in the Philippines, the Department of Education (DepEd) and the National Electrification Administration (NEA) have formalized a partnership to electrify "Last Mile Schools" (LMS) situated in the nation's most remote and underserved areas. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s vision of inclusive education and sustainable development.

Last Mile Schools are defined by DepEd as educational institutions located in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, often lacking basic infrastructure, including reliable electricity. The absence of power in these schools has long been a barrier to quality education, limiting access to modern learning tools and resources.

The collaboration between DepEd and NEA aims to provide these schools with dependable electricity, primarily through the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. This approach not only ensures a steady power supply but also promotes the use of renewable energy, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Funding for the project is expected to come from various sources, including government allocations, grants, and other financial mechanisms. Additional support may be garnered from electric cooperatives, local government units, and private-sector partnerships, fostering a collaborative effort to uplift the nation's educational framework.

NEA Administrator Antonio Mariano Almeda emphasized the transformative potential of this initiative, stating, "This moment reflects a shared vision and a unified effort to address one of the most vital aspects of development—ensuring that every child, no matter how remote their location, has access to the transformative power of modern education."

The significance of leadership in driving progress was also highlighted by Education Secretary Juan Edgardo "Sonny" Angara, who expressed enthusiasm for the presence of key energy sector leaders in this endeavor. He remarked, "Bringing all of you together—our lawmakers and leaders in the energy sector—in the same room, working towards a common goal of helping our schools, is a tremendous step forward."

This partnership is a continuation of NEA's longstanding commitment to rural electrification. Established in 1969, NEA has been at the forefront of projects supporting the Rural Electrification Program, collaborating with electric cooperatives to improve the lives of Filipinos by ensuring access to electricity.

The impact of electrification on education is profound. A study analyzing the experiences of nine rural public schools in the Philippines, beneficiaries of a solar electrification program, found significant improvements in educational outcomes following the introduction of reliable power sources. The availability of electricity enabled extended study hours, enhanced teaching methods through the use of electronic devices, and improved overall school operations. 

Moreover, initiatives like the Solar Village Foundation's project to provide solar-powered printers to isolated schools have demonstrated the practical benefits of electrification. By equipping schools with essential tools and training teachers and village-based technicians in maintenance and repair, such projects ensure that students and educators have access to necessary resources, even in the most remote locations. 

The partnership between DepEd and NEA represents a significant stride toward educational equity in the Philippines. By bringing electricity to Last Mile Schools, the initiative not only illuminates classrooms but also brightens the future prospects of countless students, empowering them to build a strong educational foundation and seize more opportunities.

As this project progresses, it serves as a testament to the power of collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and the private sector in driving meaningful change. The electrification of Last Mile Schools is more than an infrastructure upgrade; it is a beacon of hope, signaling a brighter, more inclusive future for Philippine education.

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