It’s 2019 but sadly, most Filipino children are still being denied their right to a quality education. Particularly, the lack of facilities in public schools has consistently been among the major issues our nation struggles with.
It’s more than just students not experiencing fully-functional classrooms. In a study done by Mark Schneider, Ph.D., it was pointed out that, “Learning is a complex activity that supremely tests students’ motivation and physical condition.” Thus, an “effective school facility” is necessary. He defines this as something “responsive to the changing programs of educational delivery, and at a minimum should provide a physical environment that is comfortable, safe, secure, accessible, well illuminated, well ventilated, and aesthetically pleasing.”
“The school facility is much more than a passive container of the educational process: it is, rather, an integral component of the conditions of learning. The layout and design of a facility contributes to the place experience of students, educators, and community members,” the research noted. “Depending on the quality of its design and management, the facility can contribute to a sense of ownership, safety and security, personalization and control, privacy as well as sociality, and spaciousness or crowdedness.”
In line with this, Hinge, the mother company of Preen.ph, Scout, NoliSoli.ph, Multisport.ph, and F&B Report, recently did their part to help address this national problem. As part of their CSR efforts, they partnered with Renovate to Educate (rED), an organization which facilitates renovation projects as a joint effort between public schools and volunteers from the private sector, with the goal of uplifting school communities throughout the country. The two organizations helped Gotamco Elementary School, located in Pasay City with a student population of 1148, refurbish their existing facilities.
It was no easy task, but by the end of the day, Hinge and rED were proudly able to repair and repaint 73 desks and chairs; repaint 11 blackboards, two classrooms, and four library tables; repair three classroom doors; fabricate six bookshelves; and paint one wall with a mural.
If you also want to do your part and help public schools, don’t hesitate. rED’s renovation projects are actually held every month and are open to all. If you’re interested, endorse the organization to your employer and have them check out rED’s activities and sign-up for the next renovation!
Photos by Sam Ong and JP Talapian
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