Our lives are now changing upheaved by the changes brought by COVID-19, we are now entering a ‘new normal’ wherein online is the new trend even in our education system. So, to bridge the digital and education divide, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) launched a Tech4Ed Training Center at Aurora State College of Technology three (3) campuses (Zabali, Bazal and Casiguran including FTC, Dibet, Casiguran) for Technology Empowerment, Education, Employment and train Entrepreneurs towards Economic Development (Tech4Ed) on August 25 at ASCOT- ICTC Office, Zabali Campus. ASCOT is the first SUC in Aurora to launched Tech4Ed Center.

Tech4Ed aims to establish sustainable ICT centers nationwide as delivery channel for relevant ICT-enabled services and content for socio-economic development of the unserved and undeserved communities towards improved quality life.

The launching started with a prayer led by Ms. Charisma Valenzuela, BSIT staff followed by National Anthem. The opening remarks was given by Dr. Rotaquio wherein he expressed his deepest gratitude for the DICT in helping and supporting ASCOT in providing quality education even in this time of pandemic. A special message was also given by Director Reynaldo Sy, DICT- Regional Director for Luzon Cluster 2 through Ms. Roma Herminigildo, DICT-Aurora Project Development Office I wherein he assured that Tech4Ed will provide access points for individuals and communities to bridge the digital and education divide. After that, Ms. Herminigildo presented the what Tech4Ed is all about.

During the ceremonial launching, the DICT- Aurora headed by Engr. Ravenal De Jesus, DICT Provincial Head. and ASCOT College President Dr. Eutiquio L. Rotaquio, Jr., and ASCOT Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Eusebio V. Angara with the assistance of the ASCOT Vice President for Planning and Finance, Forester Michelle A. Resueno signed a memorandum of agreement. After the signing Dr. Angara gave his message of thanks and acceptance followed by the closing remarks of Engr. De Jesus.