DepEd, Microsoft to build portable classrooms

MANILA, Philippines - Information technology giant Microsoft has partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) for the development of self-sustaining classrooms that can be deployed to far-flung communities.

Called the EGG, the portable classroom can be transported to remote areas and generate its own water and power system and has Internet connectivity.

Each classroom can accommodate around 30 students and can be easily set up within three days and can be dropped off by helicopter, truck or boat anywhere in the country, according to a statement released by DepEd yesterday.

“(It) is an innovative approach that addresses the archipelagic nature of our country where delivering education to every nook and cranny is a real challenge,” DepEd said.

“We believe now is the perfect time to fully harness the power of technology and help Filipino learners get a 21st century education through connectivity for all and Microsoft is glad to be spearheading this initiative with DepEd,” said Karrie Ilagan, general manager for Microsoft Philippines.

The EGG is equipped with information technology tools that aid both students and teachers.

It can serve as an independent classroom or can be connected and stacked together with other EGGs to form clusters, pop-up classrooms or a whole school.

DepEd said it has adaptive reuse and can also be used as a shelter during storms in areas where it will be deployed.

“Designed to be fully independent, the EGG generates its own power through solar panels found on top of its roof and collects rainwater that can be used to irrigate the land it is on or to be filtered as drinking water,” the agency said.

It also has Internet connection to provide students access to information.

DepEd said the first EGG will be launched in Bohol next month. 

College financial aid

Meanwhile, education officials have urged students not to give up on their dreams to pursue college education as the government is starting to lay the groundwork for a unified financial assistance program for tertiary students.

“Some Grade 10 completers are hesitant to enroll in Grade 11 because they think that they wouldn’t be able to afford college education anyway. They think that they only have one option: to quit school, start working and support their families. That is no longer the case,” Commission on Higher Education chairperson Patricia Licuanan said.