DepEd to distribute 30,000 computer packages to schools

MANILA, Philippines -  Some 30,000 computer packages will be distributed to public schools around the country this year, the Department of Education (DepEd) said yesterday.

DepEd has allotted P6 billion to procure 29,755 computer packages that will be delivered to 24,518 public elementary, junior and senior high schools.

This will be on top of the more than 53,000 computer packages that have already been delivered as of December last year.

“The DepEd raises the Information Communication Technology (ICT) literacy of learners, teachers, and school heads by integrating ICT in the school system, and by providing computer laboratory packages to secondary schools and e-Classroom to elementary schools nationwide through its computerization program,” the agency said.

Under the program, schools receive information technology equipment such as host personal computers, terminals, laptops, projectors, uninterruptible power supplies, automatic voltage regulators, and other network accessories. Training on simple trouble shooting is also given to the beneficiaries.

Recipient schools must pass a readiness assessment before receiving the computer packages.

The requirements include securing a multimedia classroom with proper electrical wirings and outlets, computer tables, 50 pieces mono chairs, and at least two stand fans.

The school must also secure sufficient electrical lighting, while schools without access to electricity will be provided with an alternative computer laboratory packages.

DepEd tied up with the United Nations Development Program for the procurement of alternative computer packages to schools not powered by the local electricity grid.

The packages include alternative sources of energy, such as solar panels to power the equipment.