ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY, Philippines – Senior high school students at Surabay National High School in Roseller T. Lim now have access to upgraded technical-vocational training facilities following a ₱1.69-million grant from the Rotary Foundation, officials said.
The grant, amounting to ₱1,691,017, funded the installation of modern TechPro laboratory equipment, machines, and learning tools aimed at aligning students’ skills with current industry standards. School officials said the upgrade is expected to strengthen hands-on learning and better prepare students for employment, entrepreneurship, or further technical education.
The project is part of a public–private partnership involving the Department of Education (DepEd), Rotary International District 3740 of South Korea, and Rotary International District 3850 in the Philippines. The collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement and supported by the local government unit (LGU) of Roseller T. Lim to ensure compliance with DepEd standards and long-term sustainability.
School Principal Rey Gutierrez said the upgraded laboratories will support innovative teaching approaches and improve students’ practical competencies. He added that DepEd and the LGU played a key role in ensuring that the facilities meet educational requirements. They will also ensure proper maintenance of the equipment.
Education officials said the new laboratories allow students to integrate theory with hands-on practice, addressing the skills gap between classroom instruction and workforce needs. The initiative also aims to promote innovation, productivity, and confidence among learners enrolled in technical-vocational tracks.
The project underscores the role of collaboration between government and private institutions in improving the quality of public education, with Surabay National High School serving as a model for similar initiatives in the province.
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