GOVERNMENT CENTER, PALO Leyte- The Department of Education (DepEd) here launched on the expansion of the coverage of the Alternative Learning System and Education and Skills Training (ALS-EST).
The extended ALS-EST, formally launched on September 5, aim to integrate skills training component to ALS and not just focus on academic aspect.
“This new initiated program is to acquire skills training to ALS learners because previously, we focused only on education component. This time, we integrate development training skills so at the same time while acquiring skills, they also learn the basic education,” said Robert Mangalinan, ALS DepEd Leyte supervisor.
The initial implementation of the ALS-EST will be in five pilot areas in Leyte with the maximum of 75 students.
The program will be piloted in Kananga National High School (KNHS) in Kananga; Hilongos National Vocational School (HNVS) in Hilongos; Tolosa National High School (TNHS), Tolosa; Calubian National High School (CNHS) in Calubian and San Miguel National High School (SMNHS), San Miguel.
As part of the expansion, DepEd ties up with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and other local government units in Leyte that caters skills training for the ALS students such as cookery, electrical installation maintenance, motorcycle/small engine servicing, agri-crop product, horticulture and shielded metal arc welding.
Mangalinan said that they hope that the ALS-EST will be implemented successfully to the five pilot areas so it will be replicated to other schools in the region.
This program is open primarily for the out-of-school youths and adults that could help them live a better life.
Meantime, DepEd Regional Director Ramir Uytico issued an appeal to all ALS students not to quit but dream big instead.
He said that poverty should not be a hindrance for one to succeed.
(JESSICA A. OLEVO, LNU Student Intern)
