RUSSIA, October 24, 2019 –DepEd Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones led the Philippine delegation and co-opened the 21^st ASEAN- Russia Forum on Education on October 21-22 held at Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) in Moscow. The Forum, which was held under the sponsorship of the Russian Ministry of Higher Education and Science and Ministry of Education, discussed the ongoing best practices in basic, technical, and higher education in ASEAN countries and Russia.

Briones was among the high-ranking officials who gave the opening remarks. She outlined the historical cooperation between Russia and ASEAN,  specifically with the Philippines, that has been ongoing without fanfare. She recalled that there were a number of big batches of student exchange to Russia in the 1960s, and that she personally knows some of the alumni of this program.

The Forum likewise explored areas for deeper cooperation among ASEAN and Russia. In her speech, Briones  stressed that education, among other areas, provides  framework platforms of cooperation between Russia and ASEAN; however, implementation is a challenge.

Moreover, Undersecretary Nepomuceno Malaluan spoke at the panel on basic education. Hesaid that in-service professional development of teachers is one area of cooperation that can have the greatest impact on the quality of education .

One highlight of the Russia presentations was their strong programs for gifted children. Among a number of presentations, Russia also showcased their STEM initiatives using small interactive robots for educational play in early grades.

Meanwhile,  Briones along with the Philippine delegation met with Filipino scholars who are now working in Russia. She was also hosted to a dinner by Philippine Ambassador to Russia Carlo Sorreta. Secretary Briones shared developments in basic education, while the Ambassador shared the status and condition of Filipinos in Russia.

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