Germany reaffirms education support
German Ambassador to the Philippines Anke Reiffenstuel said a robust education system is the basis of a country’s economic success.
Daily TribuneGerman Ambassador to the Philippines Anke Reiffenstuel said a robust education system is the basis of a country’s economic success.
The Federal Government of Germany vowed that it will continue to support initiatives to improve human rights situation and education projects for underprivileged children in the Philippines as part of their major commitments to the international community.
German Ambassador to the Philippines Anke Reiffenstuel said a robust education system is the basis of a country's economic success.
"In a country like the Philippines, where the majority of the population is below the age of 30, it is essential to tap the full potential of the youth by investing in education," Reiffenstuel said.
She added that basic education which ensures a child's literacy not only opens avenues for better paying jobs but it is also a pre-condition for being able to access important information.
"Education also helps you detect and dismantle mis — or — disinformation which is imperative in every vibrant democracy," said Reiffenstuel, adding that the sponsorship program of German charity organization Freunde der Erziehungskunst Rudolf Steiners to the underprivileged children and provide them a chance at quality education in Iloilo province.
Freunde provides yearly financial support to Waldorf School Gamot Cogon in Zarraga, Iloilo allowing it to accept scholars and cover the costs of general school operations. About a third of the students are from Barangay Libongcogon — a low-lying coastal area in Zarraga that is vulnerable to natural disasters such as typhoons and flooding.
"Over the past several years, we have seen the community children thrive and excel in their studies and in many various aspects. We also take pride in knowing that there has been a strong culture of inclusivity, harmony, and equality among our students who come from various backgrounds and from all walks of life," said Gamot Cogon administrator Angel dela Flor.
The German Embassy said it also partnered with Children's Rehabilitation Center in the holding of a national conference on human rights on 30 November to 3 December participated by community-based organizations and young delegates held in Quezon City.