The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd), the Rizal Provincial Government, and Local Government Units (LGUs) formally inaugurated the 21st Century Learning Environment Model (21st CLEM) Classroom in Antipolo City National Science and Technology High School (ACNSTHS) last August 14, marking the first in Rizal.

The 21st CLEM classroom was established to modernize the learning environment and strengthen learners' skills, becoming future-ready by pivoting from traditional learning spaces to technology-based learning.

The successful inauguration marked the first 21st CLEM classroom in the province of Rizal, as well as the 12th CLEM in the CALABARZON region and the 19th CLEM nationwide.

Among the attendees, DOST-Science Education Institute (SEI) Director Jayeel Cornelio stated that ACNSTHS was chosen as the latest recipient of the modern learning hub in recognition of the school’s active engagement and enthusiasm to partner with DOST and DepEd. 

“It will enhance also the quality of learning dito [sa AnSci] and also the quality of teaching ng mga teachers natin,” Cornelio stated, emphasizing on improving the school and its quality in education.  

Moreover, Antipolo Representative and 2nd District Congressman, Romeo M. Acop, imparted that the 21st CLEM program motivated him to push for the establishment of modernized classrooms in the city, not just the provision of gadgets. 

"The DepEd has an oft-used theme — IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO RAISE A CHILD — and this holds true for the 21st CLEM to happen in Antipolo," Acop said in his latest Facebook post.

School Head Janice Maravilla also highlighted the partnership of AnSci students and teachers to bridge the gap for knowledge along with further enhancement of education in the school. 

“May alam kayo [students] na hindi namin alam, may alam kami with experiences na hindi niyo pa alam [...] so we can help connect and bridge the dots,” she stated.

Meanwhile, students also expressed their eagerness for the modernized classroom.

“Talagang makakatulong po ito sa mga science high students na maging high-tech ang mga facilities sa AnSci,” said Jurisse Tapar, a grade 9 participant who tested the new CLEM features, adding that the features will help many students in their learning.

DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. emphasized that the CLEM is one of the stepping stones to improving the learning modalities in the country, not just in AnSci.

“The phrase 21st Century Learning Environment Model – the [keyword] is ‘model’ so if it’s a model, we want it to be replicated,” Sec. Solidum remarked, adding that the 21st CLEM will be placed in more schools nationwide.

DepEd and DOST continued to plan to expand more 21st CLEM classrooms nationwide, aiming to bring the upgraded classrooms to rural provinces of the country.