Ayala Foundation launches code/it program in Manila
Ayala Foundation signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the City of Manila, Department of Education-Division of Manila, and Asian Terminals Inc. for the implementation of the Ayala Foundation’s <code/it> program in Manila’s 73 public elementary schools.
(L-R) Adrian Edward A. Baking, Assistant Vice President, Asian Terminals, Inc.; Vivien V. Reyes, Chief Information Officer and Senior Director, Ayala Foundation, Inc.; Ruel T. Maranan, President, Ayala Foundation, Inc.; Hon. Francisco M. Domagoso, Mayor, City of Manila; Sean James Perez, Senior Vice President, Asian Terminals, Inc.; Dr. Jenilyn Rose B. Corpuz, Schools Division Superintendent, DepEd-Manila; and Aida H. Rondilla, Chief of Curriculum Implementation Division, DepEd-Manila
code/it is a digital literacy learning program that was conceptualized by Ayala Foundation and which aims to introduce basic computer science and coding concepts to public school children at an early age. With a desire to help bridge the digital divide that continues to affect many communities in developing countries like the Philippines, Ayala Foundation piloted the <code/it> program in 12 schools across the country earlier this year. With the successful pilot, Ayala Foundation is now ready to scale up the program to a more significant national level, starting with our nation’s capital.
Ayala Foundation believes that every Filipino child deserves the opportunity to learn the digital skills that will be relevant in the workplace of tomorrow. Using a Public-Private Partnership collaboration framework, Ayala Foundation found willing, supportive and like-minded partners in the Office of Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, DepEd-Manila, and ATI.
The <code/it> learning modules have been approved by the Department of Education for integration into the Grades 3-6 classroom curriculum of participating public schools. Aside from developing students’ basic coding skills, the project also aims to help develop critical thinking, problem-solving, logical reasoning, creativity, and innovation. In addition to the capacity building for the teachers, the project also provides the laptops and other tools needed to convert concepts into a fun, practical and engaging learning experience.
“It is a privilege for Ayala Foundation to continue our strong partnership with the City of Manila, especially in promoting access to quality education,” said Ayala Foundation President Ruel Maranan. “Through <code/it>, we are stepping up our efforts in making digital education more accessible and providing opportunities for growth and development for our partner communities.” Quote from mayor
“Pahalagahan at mahalin ninyo ang pag-aaral dahil hindi lahat ay nakapag-aaral,” said Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso. “Edukasyon lang din ang makapagbibigay sa inyo ng magandang kinabukasan. Walang magmamalasakit sa ating mga Batang Maynila kundi tayo ring mga kapwa Batang Maynila. Kailangan natin ng mga bata na malalawak ang isip. This is our time to shine. This is the time to be part of the change. Let us do things differently today so that we will have different results.”
“We may not change the whole world, but together, we commit to make a difference,” said Dr. Jenilyn Corpuz, superintendent, DepEd Manila.
