Section 7Sec./Art. 7

Powers and Duties of the BAE.- The BAE shall serve as the focal office for the policy formulation, curriculum development, learning program delivery and learning materials development for the ALS program. To ensure the effective implementation of the ALS, the BAE shall establish quality assurance and support system undertake regular learner assessment activities. It shall have the following powers and functions:

(a) Establish minimum quality standards in the development of the ALS curriculum and learning materials, program planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and management, including certification of learning outcomes, recognition of service providers, competency standards for ALS personnel, and requirements for ALS learning environments, among others;

(b) Promote and ensure the certification and accreditation of learners through alternative learning programs, both nonformal and informal in nature, as anchored on the competencies of the ALS K to 12 BEC;

(c) In partnership with other government agencies, LGUs, and the private sector, ensure access to educational opportunities for learners of difficult interests, learning needs, capabilities, demographic characteristics, and socioeconomic status, who have been unable to complete formal basic education;

(d) Coordinate with various agencies and industries for skills development to promote the learners' employability, efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness in the labor market, as well as assist the learners to become entrepreneurs;

(e) Coordinate, encourage close partnerships, and establish linkages with LGUs and the private sector on matters pertaining to the sustainable implementation of ALS programs, post-program support activities and community mapping, and manage a nationwide database for out-of-school children in special cases and adults; and

(f) Such other powers and functions as may be necessary for the effective and efficient implementation of ALS programs, projects, and activities.