DOST supports education in Aurora through expansion of offline digital libraries

July 25, 2025

by Bonifacio P. Olit

BALER, Aurora (PIA) — Students and teachers in three geographically isolated and disadvantaged area (GIDA) schools in Aurora now have access to thousands of educational materials through the offline digital library initiative of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in line with President Ferdnand Marcos, Jr.’s directive aimed at bridging the digital divide. 

Villa Aurora, Diotorin, and Dibayabay Elementary Schools each received a refurbished laptop preloaded with the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Station (STARBOOKS), developed by DOST to support learning in areas without internet access.

DOST Aurora Science Research Specialist Regine Maines-Agumboy said the laptops were donated in partnership with Chevron Philippines to strengthen access to learning in underserved schools.

“By bringing these resources directly to schools in remote areas, DOST is helping build a stronger foundation for inclusive and equitable education that empowers both students and teachers to thrive despite connectivity challenges,” she said.

STARBOOKS is a stand-alone digital library that provides offline access to curated science and technology content, helping bridge the digital divide in GIDA schools.

It allows multiple users to connect through a local area network or Wi-Fi, making it an effective tool for classrooms without reliable internet.

Meanwhile, Agumboy disclosed that 36 additional STARBOOKS units will be delivered this year under the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology program, strengthening the 12 existing installations already operating in other parts of the province.

“DOST wants to ensure that no learner is left behind just because they don’t have access to the internet,” she pressed.

In his 2024 State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the importance of bridging the digital divide alongside addressing classroom shortages, highlighting the government’s goal to equip all students with digital tools, electricity, and connectivity.

By aligning national priorities with on-the-ground implementation, the continued rollout of STARBOOKS in Aurora’s GIDA schools moves the country closer to an inclusive, tech-enabled education system. (CLJD/BPO, PIA Region 3-Aurora)

Source: https://pia.gov.ph/dost-supports-education-in-auro...