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The Department of Education (DepEd) underscored its ongoing efforts to produce future-ready learners during the Annual Educators’ Congress (AECON) 2025 on Thursday.

In a speech delivered by Undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera on behalf of Secretary Sonny Angara, DepEd highlighted the need to equip learners with the skills and tools to thrive in a fast-changing global workforce.

“The game is changing for our learners. To remain competitive, we need to ensure their technology literacy, much like athletes mastering new skills,” Usec. Corvera said.

Citing the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, Corvera noted the growing demand for skills aligned with artificial intelligence and technological innovation. He emphasized that 92 million jobs could be displaced globally, while 170 million new roles are projected to emerge in the next decade.

To address these shifts, DepEd is focusing on closing infrastructure and digital gaps through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). The Department recently announced its target to construct 15,000 classrooms by 2027 through the PPP scheme. Efforts are also underway to provide electricity and satellite internet access to underserved schools.

Meanwhile, training programs in English, Science, and Mathematics—bolstered by partnerships with Khan Academy and Frontlearners—are being conducted to ensure teachers are equipped with global tools to raise learning standards.

DepEd has also partnered with TESDA to deepen industry ties, enhance work readiness courses, and facilitate national certifications.

“The support of our partners and stakeholders demonstrates that collaboration leads to extraordinary victories,” Corvera said.

The annual AECON serves as a platform for educators from the public and private sectors to address the challenges facing Philippine education and discuss solutions to ensure quality education for all learners.

*All Photos from DepEd