1st Science and Computer laboratory opens in San Jose school
Pupils of Canuto B. Pefianco, Sr.
Elementary School, formerly Madrangca
Elementary School in San Jose, Antique,
learns their lessons through the new
science and computer laboratory facility,
the first among elementary schools in the
country.
INSET: San Jose Mayor Fernando
Corvera, Gov. Salvacion Z. Perez,
Cong. Exequiel Javier, Supt. Corazon
Brown and Dr. Erlinda C. Pefianco
during the ceremonial turn-over
ceremony for the science and
computer laboratory.
The recently renamed Canuto B. Pefianco, Sr. Elementary School, formerly Madrangca Elementary School in San Jose, Antique, launched its new science and computer laboratory facility, the first among elementary schools nationwide last August 4, 2006.
The project was made possible through Dr. Erlinda C. Pefianco, Director of SEAMEO INNOTECH and wife of prominent Antiqueño Atty. Romeo V. Pefianco, in partnership with DOST and SEI. The facility aims to improve the students' performance in major subjects such as English, Math and Science, as well as to expose the children to more advanced technology and research methods. "Here in Antique, we have something to offer to the educational community and we'll bring the project as a model in South East Asia", Dr. Pefianco explained.
Twenty five computers loaded with educational subjects and a complete set of science equipment suited for elementary pupils were turned over to the school. All the facilities and technology to be used will be provided by the INNOTECH, while the West Visayas State University (WVSU) will provide the technical training for teachers, which include innovative ways of teaching and the integration of lessons in multi-media format to appeal more to children. Dr. Pefianco is hopeful that the new facilities, which will be shared by all elementary schools in the locality, will help the beneficiary's conversion into a science school.
"This was developed out of our quest to formulate creative ways of doing things", asserted Department of Education (DepEd) Asst. Regional Director Dr. Elnora Barrios. Meanwhile, DepEd Elementary Division Chief Teresita Inciong declared her optimism in the new facility's capacity to bring new opportunities for learning.
The said event brought together DepEd local authorities headed by Schools Division Supt. Corazon Brown, and in a rare opportunity, top local officials Cong. Exequiel B. Javier and Governor Sally Z. Perez, with San Jose Mayor Fenando C. Corvera and Vice Mayor J Gabin.
"We are united", uttered Perez, referring to her oneness with Javier in such undertaking. She also expressed her pride in Antique's being the first beneficiary of a very significant project, and likewise spoke of her recent approval of a budget for the concreting of a street in Madrangca. On the other hand, Cong. Javier articulated his concern over the project's proper implementation and thereby encouraged teachers and stakeholders to perform their functions well. Javier proudly announced that Antique is one of the top ten investors in human resource, and that he has allotted P25 Million worth of equity from his pork barrel for the same undertaking.
Also present during the ceremony were. Dr. Zenaida Domingo -- SEAMEO INNOTECH Business Development Division, Dir. Zenia Teruel -- DOST Regional Director, Dr. Lourdes Arañador President of the West Visayas State University, Dr. Lelia Lauron of DOST-SEI and Dr. Lelia Moraño -- WVSU's Vice President for Academic Affairs. The people of Madrangca headed by Brgy. Capt. Genaro Encarnacion jubilantly welcomed the project in a festive celebration.