LiteHaus, through CEO Jack Growden (left) and inclusion program lead Rob Birnie, initially set up 12 laptop units in the computer labs of Balabag Elementary School, its first beneficiary school in the PhilippinesEnergy Development Corporation (EDC) has signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) and partnered with Australianbased nonprofit organization LiteHaus International to provide 350 laptops to 20 elementary schools in Kidapawan City to help boost online learning.

During the MOA signing ceremony in Manila, EDC vice president and head of corporate support functions Regina Victoria Pascual recognized the need for additional tools to complement the teachers’ conventional teaching methods and enhance the students’ learning experience.
“The current new normal brought about by the COVID19 pandemic has pushed schools and students to embrace technology as a crucial part of education. The students can obtain highquality information, develop their autonomy, engage in interactive and meaningful learning using multimedia support, and develop ICT skills,” Pascual said.
EDC assistant vice president and corporate relations and communications head Atty. Allan Barcena said at the same event: “We thank our international partner LiteHaus for this partnership and for being an enabler of a brighter future for the thousands of elementary students in Kidapawan City. These devices will surely help them in their educational endeavors.”
During the deed of donation signing and ceremonial turnover of the laptops at Lanao Central Elementary School, LiteHaus founder and CEO Jack Growden made a commitment to the Department of Education (DepEd) that they will help the schools in its digitization program.
“LiteHaus International does not belong to any of the nations. We believe 100% in the spirit of generosity. What made me partner with EDC is the amazing program they have, SIKAT education program, for the students. The turnover of the laptops today is just the beginning of a stronger and longer partnership with EDC and DepEd,” Growden said.
“We are grateful to LiteHaus International for extending their mission of digitizing schools here in the Philippines,” EDC Mount Apo Geothermal Project corporate relations department head Myrissa Tabao asserted.
Dr. Meilrose Peralta, DepEd assistant schools division superintendent, also expressed her gratitude to EDC and LiteHaus. for choosing the Kidapawan City Division as the first beneficiary of LiteHaus in the Philippines.
(Story/Photos by:Jolly Jamoralin)