The Embassy of Israel marked its 78th Independence Day by opening a digital learning center. The facility is located at Jacinto Zamora Elementary School in Pandacan, Manila.
The project is a partnership with the Department of Education and EDCOM. It transforms the school’s old ICT room into a modern learning hub. The room now features new computers, furniture, and a reading corner.
All computers include CodeMonkey. This Israeli platform teaches students how to code. It uses interactive lessons to build computational thinking skills. The embassy will also hire a full-time staff member to keep the center open after school hours.
Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh led the inauguration. Department of Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara attended the event. Other officials also joined the ceremony.
“Education is the best investment for the future,” Ambassador Kursh said. She told the students, “The children are our future … investing in you is investing in our future.”
She also encouraged the children to use the space effectively. “Come to this place, come to learn here, come to read here, come to explore here, but mainly, come to dream here,” she said.
Secretary Angara thanked the embassy for the contribution. He said the project helps bridge the digital divide. It supports the government’s goal to improve digital literacy in public schools.
Angara noted the strong ties between the two nations. “In the field of technology, innovation, digital technology, we have a lot to learn from Israel,” he said.
The project reflects the ongoing friendship between Israel and the Philippines. Both nations aim to empower young people through better access to education and technology.
