Secretary Armin Luistro, head of the Philippines Department of Education and Dr Patricia Licuanan, Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education, have met with AusAID representatives in Canberra as part of a study to examine Australia's approach to deliver education.
The visit to Australia, funded by AusAID, will help inform the Philippines Government on sound approaches for implementing an expanded education system across the country.
Their challenge is immense. There are currently 22 million students in the 10-year education system in the Philippines and now the expansion to a 12-year system will see enrolments jump to 23 million by 2016. This is the most significant education reform to ever take place in the Philippines.
The new administration of President Aquino (elected in 2010) has increased funding for basic education by an unprecedented amount in its 2011 budget. It has also introduced a policy to expand the basic education system. The new system, known as 'K to 12', when implemented, will align the Philippine system with the international standard.
Introducing the 'K to 12' education system is a major reform initiative with significant challenges. Australia will be working to assist in its effective implementation, including in the critical areas of curriculum, assessment and teacher training.
The visit is evidence of the highly regarded, effective and close partnership in education between Australia and the Philippines. Education is the flagship of the Australian assistance program and accounts for around $30-50 million of Official Development Assistance (ODA) annually.
AusAID is the largest education grant donor in the Philippines, has had a long and successful engagement with the sector and is seen by the Philippines Government as contributing high quality strategic policy and planning advice.
Australia's support has helped produce improvements in education, governance, learning achievement, access and participation, especially in the most disadvantaged areas and communities.
While in Australia, the delegation will also make visits to senior secondary schools, a technical/vocation college, the University of Canberra and the Australian Council for Education Research. They will also meet with the ACT Minister of Education and Training.