Building Bridges, Building Skills: Philippines and Cuba Forge Educational Partnership
The Philippines and Cuba are taking their long-standing diplomatic relationship to the next level, with a renewed focus on education. A recent virtual meeting between the Department of Education (DepEd) of the Philippines and the Cuban Ministry of Education marked a significant step forward in fostering collaboration and sharing best practices.
The meeting, the first since 2017, highlighted the commitment of both nations to strengthen their bilateral relationship. This renewed connection comes on the heels of the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultations in December 2023, opening doors for collaboration across various sectors, including education.
The focus of the discussions lay in identifying areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration. The Philippine delegation showcased the "MATATAG" curriculum, which emphasizes producing competent, job-ready citizens equipped with relevant skills like livelihood education, information technology, and family and consumer science. Additionally, DepEd presented the innovative rural farming school program, aimed at providing accessible education and agricultural training to youth in farming communities.
The Cuban Ministry of Education, in turn, shared its insights into their education system, emphasizing both general foundational education at the primary level and technical and professional training at the secondary level. They also highlighted their experience in integrating local communities into their educational framework, suggesting potential areas of exchange with the Philippines.
The discussion underscored the importance of embracing alternative learning methods, particularly in light of the global pandemic's impact. The Cuban government's emphasis on digital education resonated with the Philippines, paving the way for potential future collaboration in developing and sharing effective digital learning tools and strategies.
Looking ahead, both parties expressed enthusiasm for future collaboration. The Philippines is keen to further explore cooperation, particularly in areas like alternative learning methods, rural farming schools, and promoting work readiness through technical skills education. Additionally, Cuba has invited DepEd to participate in upcoming international education conferences in 2024 and 2025, offering an avenue for further in-depth discussions and collaboration.
This newfound educational partnership between the Philippines and Cuba is a testament to the power of international cooperation. By sharing experiences, expertise, and innovative approaches, both nations can work towards building a future where education empowers individuals, fosters stronger communities, and facilitates shared progress on the global stage.