TO ENHANCE learning outcomes and reduce educational disparities, the United States Agency for International Development signed a partnership agreement with UNICEF Philippines.

Both groups agreed to collaborate in order to help the Department of Education improve learning in the early grades.

Along with assisting youth who are not in school, the cooperation will assist the government in addressing issues of learning continuity, learning recovery, and loss.

“The Covid19 pandemic school closures and the devastating effects of natural disasters only worsened learning poverty and inequalities in education. Recent studies reveal that children’s proficiency in reading, mathematics, and science is low,” the two groups said in a joint statement.

USAID said that it will be able to fully support broad-based and inclusive growth “if we are to work together with partners to help in improving the quality of basic education across the country.”

“We recognize that need for partners that can support and invest in improving early grade learning, ensuring access to education of out of school youth and strengthening education governance with various stakeholders,” Ryan Washburn, USAID Philippines Mission Director said.

Meanwhile, UNICEF Philippines Representative Oyunsaikhan Dendevnorov emphasized that every student has the right to quality education.

“Giving children the foundational skills to secure a better outcome for their future is something all of us can get behind. By sharing our ideas, experiences and resources, we can support all learners in the Philippines to catch up,” Dendevnorov said.