DepEd Plans to Use AI and Tech to Support Learners with Disabilities

The Department of Education (DepEd) is stepping up its efforts to support students with disabilities, and it’s doing so with the help of technology, including artificial intelligence (AI).

One of DepEd’s main goals is to set up Inclusive Learning Resource Centers (ILRCs) across the country. These will act as hubs for support and specialized learning. Many of these will be developed by converting existing Special Education (SPED) Centers into virtual or satellite-based ILRCs, so every city or town can have access.

To further improve early detection of learning challenges, DepEd, through its Education Center for AI Research (ECAIR), is working on a new AI-powered project called SABAY. This stands for Screening using AI-Based Assistance for Young children. Its main goal is to help spot disabilities in children faster and more accurately, reducing the workload on teachers and speeding up the referral process.

DepEd officials said this innovation aims to enhance the existing Child Find System, as mandated by the Inclusive Education Act. It’s designed not just to identify needs earlier but also to guide decisions in schools and offer timely support to students.

Alongside this, DepEd is also improving its Alternative Learning System (ALS) and Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM). These programs will now have a stronger focus on building teachers' skills, better tracking policies, and using AI tools inside classrooms.

According to ECAIR’s Managing Director, Erika Legara, the goal is to automate some parts of the screening process to help educators make better, faster decisions. The data generated should be clear, practical, and helpful in real-life situations, especially when figuring out how to best assist a student.

Teachers and school principals are also receiving specialized training to better serve students with special needs, particularly those who are in regular classroom settings. Meanwhile, parents are being introduced to learning materials and resources available through DepEd to help them support their children at home.

This new approach brings hope that every child, regardless of ability, will have the chance to learn and succeed through the power of inclusive, tech-driven education.