The Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines has signed a memorandum of agreement with Khan Academy Philippines to enhance Filipino students’ performance in the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA).

Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the need for improved internet connectivity to facilitate the use of Khan Academy, an online learning platform that aims to strengthen foundational skills in mathematics, science, reading, and critical thinking. Only 33 schools utilize Khan Academy, but there is growing interest in expanding its use nationwide. Angara’s immediate goal is to boost the Philippines’ PISA scores by 2025, following a disappointing ranking in the 2022 assessment, where the country placed sixth lowest among 81 participants.

Editor’s Note: While the partnership between DepEd and Khan Academy offers a promising avenue for improving PISA scores, it is crucial to recognize the limitations of online learning and its potential to exacerbate existing inequalities, as evidenced during the pandemic. Relying too heavily on technological solutions may divert attention from the systemic issues plaguing the education system, such as inadequate teacher training, outdated curricula, and resource disparities.

Furthermore, the exodus of experienced educators underscores the need for a more holistic approach that values and supports teachers as the backbone of quality education. [Read Educators in Exodus: The Philippines Faces a Teacher Crisis].

Boosting PISA rankings should not be the sole focus; rather, the Philippines must prioritize creating an environment that nurtures critical thinking, fosters inclusivity, and prepares students for the challenges of the 21st century. Online learning can be a complementary tool but cannot replace the human connections and contextual understanding that effective teaching requires. [In case people forgot the impact of online schooling on our children, read Education secretary: Children need human interaction, No, COVID education is not homeschooling, COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Children’s IQ, Statement on the Education Situation of Children and Adolescents, Overcome the fear: Sign petition to end lockdowns of children and the youth].

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