THE Marinduque State College has received P1.7 billion in funding for the implementation of its ICT Center for Excellence Transition Program, to help the university with its technological advancement.

MSC said that the additional funding that will come from the 2024 national budget will be instrumental in equipping its students with the proper tools in the digital age.

It added that the establishment of the program will be integral for shaping the future of technology education in the region.

“Their commitment to investing in education and technological advancement will undoubtedly contribute to the development of a skilled and competitive workforce, ultimately driving progress and innovation in our society,” MSC President Diosdado Zulueta III said.

“The future [MSC] looks forward to the positive impact this funding will have on the academic and technological landscape, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation,” Zulueta added.

According to the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, schools utilizing digital technologies effectively can help the country improve its economy and development and will help reduce the digital divide among Filipinos.

A study by the World Bank and the National Economic and Development Authority also found that the Philippines is lagging behind its Southeast Asian neighbors when it comes to adopting digital technologies.

The research dubbed “A Better Normal Under Covid-19: Digitalizing the Philippine Economy Now,” also said that rapid adoption can help the country alleviate poverty in the long run.