MANILA, Philippines — In line with its goal of reaffirming and emphasizing the role of education in empowering and developing the young into becoming productive citizens of the country, the Department of Education (DepEd) is celebrating Education Week nationwide from December 6-10.

Guided by the theme “Edukasyon: Tungo sa Tapat na Pagbabago at Pag-Unlad,” Education Secretary Armin Luistro issued Memorandum 491, series of 2010 to announce the conduct of the celebration as part of its efforts to produce young people who are responsive to the needs of the times and to encourage every stakeholder to invest in education.

“We always say that we should not give up on education for it is truly key, the foundation from where our citizens can not only lead productive lives but also give of themselves in a rippling, multiplier effect. It is one of the few ways of achieving true reforms in the country,” he explained. 

However, Luistro said he believes that DepEd alone cannot make education serve its purpose and that the department needs the support of all sectors.

“For education to truly serve its purpose, we need to establish partnerships among all stakeholders, including those in the grassroots level,” he said. Luistro added that the entire community, not just parents, must actively participate in the upbringing of children — for the good of the children and the greater good of the community.

Apart from emphasizing the role of education in society, the celebration also aims to strengthen cooperation among stakeholders in education to support the necessary and significant changes to achieve quality and relevant education. “Moreover, it intends to inspire every educator to do more for the schoolchildren to ensure their future,” he added.

Luistro said he support President Benigno Aquino III’s goal of seeking positive changes in the life of every Filipino,  particularly in education which, he said, is among the President’s priorities. 

“Like him, I want to make a positive difference in the lives of our countrymen through the education reforms I will initiate under my term in the department. And perhaps we can all agree that if more of our people were better educated, poverty would not affect our country as much as we are experiencing today,” he stressed.

All school officials including bureau and regional directors, directors of services/centers/ and heads of units, schools division/city superintendents, and heads of public and private elementary and secondary schools were encouraged to conduct simple and austere programs and activities consistent with the theme and objectives of this year’s celebration during the week.

Among the suggested activities to be conducted during the week-long celebration are setting up of bazaars/tiangge; seminar / training / workshop / team-building for students and teachers; exhibits of outstanding achievements; awarding of outstanding teachers, employees, programs, and projects; awarding of appreciation to all partners, local government units, non-governmental organizations, parent-teachers associations, and sponsors; academic and co-curricular contests.