January 15, 2021 – In celebration of International Day of Education, the Department of Education (DepEd) will conduct Stories of Revitalization and Excellence: 2021 IDE Virtual Forum on January 25 to feature efforts and initiatives of various education stakeholders amid the pandemic.

The DepEd – International Cooperation Office-led initiative will also highlight inspiring stories of our learners and teachers who excelled internationally in line with the international theme, Recover and Revitalize Education for the COVID-19 Generation.

In the forum, outstanding teachers are set to narrate their efforts and sacrifices in ensuring that quality, inclusive, and relevant education will be delivered to the students amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

DepEd Secretary Leonor Magtolis-Briones, together with Undersecretary and Chief of Staff Nepomuceno Malaluan, will spearhead the said webinar to impart the plans and actions of the Department for this year. Undersecretary Jesus Mateo, meanwhile, will open the program to discuss engagement with ASEAN countries and other international partners.

Furthermore, the program desires to provide a platform for the participants to raise awareness on the IDE proclaimed by the United Nations to be celebrated during the 24th day of January every year.

The forum will also be an avenue for discussion and collaboration in utilizing the Information and Communications Technology in teaching the learners for years to come as the education system progresses.

Educators representing various schools, organizations, and education systems from different parts of the world will participate in the virtual webinar.

Meanwhile, Stefania Giannini, the Assistant Director-General for Education of UNESCO; Dr. Kritsachai Somsaman, Deputy Director of the SEAMEO Secretariat; and G. Rajitsinh Disale, the 2020 Global Teacher Prize Winner of India will be part of the pool of speakers of the program.

Nadia Lopez, the Founding Principal of Mott Hall Bridges Academy from the USA; Ms. Barbara Ana Zielonka, the 2018 Global Teacher Prize Top 10 Finalist from Norway, and Ms. Nurten Akkus, the 2018 Global Teacher Prize Top 10 Finalist from Turkey will also discuss topics related to education.

The program will be held virtually later this month from 08:30 am up to 11:30 am (Philippine Standard Time).

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