PNU joins EDCOM 2 to address teacher education challenges, improve classroom quality

Photo courtesy of Philippine Normal University Facebook page.

The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) has formed a partnership with the Philippine Normal University (PNU) to tackle critical issues in teacher education. 

The agreement, signed on Aug. 27, aims to improve the quality of education for students across the country.

During the signing ceremony, EDCOM 2 Executive Director Karol Mark Yee emphasized the importance of collaboration with teachers. 

“We need to see our teachers as our collaborators in reforming our education system,” he said. “The reforms that our teachers want are the reforms that we want.”

Under this partnership, PNU will lead research initiatives focused on pre-service teacher education. 

Key areas of focus include developing a senior high school track for education, creating a more effective pre-service teacher curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning, rethinking certification programs and reviewing graduate programs. 

The collaboration will take place through PNU’s Research Institute for Teacher Quality.

EDCOM 2’s Year One Report highlighted significant challenges in teacher education, noting that many teachers are not adequately prepared for the specific content and skills required in their subjects. 

This lack of preparation can negatively impact the quality of education students receive.

PNU will also work on initiatives to enhance teacher education institutions by profiling teacher educators and providing them with the necessary skills to meet the needs of the Department of Education. 

Yee raised concerns about the alignment of teacher education curricula with the current needs of educators and students.

PNU President Bert J. Tuga expressed the university’s commitment to supporting EDCOM 2’s goals. 

“We are very happy that you partnered with us. On behalf of my colleagues, and the whole PNU, we are committed to share our resources and our expertise to come up with innovative solutions to the issues and problems related to our education system,” he said.

This partnership is a key step in improving teacher education in the Philippines, benefiting students and strengthening the education system.