Diagnostic tests set for Grade IV pupils, 3rd-year HS students
By TONY PE. RIMANDO
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN2004062812877.html

EXCERPTS:
- The Department of Education (DepEd) has simultaneously scheduled for tomorrow, June 29, a National Diagnostic Test (NDT) for all public elementary school Grade 4 pupils and a National Achievement Test (NAT) for all public high school third-year students throughout the country.

- Education Secretary Edilberto C. de Jesus said the NDT is designed to provide information in the mastery of competencies in English, Science, and Mathematics in Grade 3 among the newly enrolled Grade 4 children.

This is a good move for the Department of Education to assess the proficiency of the students (elementary & high school) in the abovementioned subjects. This is a fresh start to resolve the problem with regards to the improvement of the quality of education in our country.

Evidently, even “Call Centers” are having a problem hiring new employees who are proficient in English. Please read Pg. 3 of Manila Bulletin, June 28, 2004. Indeed, Filipino youths today are having a hard time in seeking employment due to this problem.