Gatchalian fears class dry run cancellation will worsen learning crisis

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian fears that the cancellation of dry runs for in-person classes could worsen the country's learning crisis.

He acknowledged the suspension was a necessary precaution due to the threat of a new COVID-19 variant.

Gatchalian expressed concern that without face-to-face classes, students' knowledge may further decline, leading to greater problems.

As the chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Arts and Culture, he stressed the need for the country to prepare for an aggravated learning crisis and an increase in students with poor academic performance.

He urged the government to fully utilize resources and implement strategies to help students catch up, especially since over P22 billion has been allocated for flexible learning options in the 2021 budget.

"Dahil wala na muna tayong face-to-face classes ngayong Enero, nangangamba akong baka lalong umurong ang kaalaman ng ating mga kabataan. Mas malaki ang magiging problema natin. Kaya dapat sa 2021, ibuhos natin ang budget at lahat ng resources para masiguro na hindi umurong ang kaalaman ng ating mga estudyante,"

he added.