MANILA, Philippines 鈥� Senatorial aspirant Camille Villar has proposed a groundbreaking initiative to incorporate programming and computer science into the elementary education curriculum.
Inspired by the United Kingdom鈥檚 (UK) model, where computing education is mandatory from the age of 5 since 2014, Villar aims to equip Filipino children with essential digital skills to meet the challenges of the modern era
The proposed curriculum focuses on the fundamentals of computer science, including understanding how computers work, basic programming concepts, and the importance of logical thinking.
It also encourages pupils to design computer programs that solve real-world problems, fostering innovation and critical thinking from an early age.
鈥淒igital literacy is no longer a luxury鈥攊t is the language of the future. By teaching children as young as five the basics of computer science, we can ensure that the Philippines stays competitive in the global digital economy,鈥� Villar stated.
In the UK, computing has been a core subject in the national curriculum since 2014, with children learning coding, algorithms, and problem-solving skills at a young age.
痴颈濒濒补谤鈥檚 vision builds on this model, adapting it to the Philippine context to address the country鈥檚 unique challenges and opportunities.
The proposed curriculum will focus on:
- Understanding Computers: How they work and why they are crucial in today鈥檚 world.
- Basic Programming: Introducing pupils to coding languages like Python and Scratch.
- Real-World Applications: Encouraging students to design and implement computer programs to address everyday challenges, from environmental issues to community problems.
This initiative aligns with the Department of Education鈥檚 (DepEd) goals to modernize the Philippine education system and equip students with the necessary skills for the digital age.
Villar emphasized that this program is not only about technology鈥攊t is about opportunity.
鈥淧rogramming is not just for software engineers鈥攊t鈥檚 a tool for problem-solving, creativity, and empowerment. Starting early gives every Filipino child the chance to succeed in the future,鈥� she added.
The proposal has already garnered support from educators, technology leaders, and parents who recognize the value of early exposure to programming.
Next steps will include consultations with stakeholders, including DepEd, to finalize the curriculum and secure the resources needed for its nationwide implementation.
Villar believes this initiative will be a game-changer for the Philippines, creating a generation of digitally skilled, forward-thinking citizens who can contribute to the country鈥檚 progress and innovation.