CEBU CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) announced on Wednesday that its 'Tara Basa!' tutoring program is set to expand, beginning with a launch in Cebu City.
According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative aims to build on the positive outcomes from its initial pilot in the National Capital Region last year. The ceremonial launch is scheduled for March 8.
The program's expansion will include various regions across the Philippines, notably San Jose del Monte City, Malolos City in Bulacan province, Marawi City, Taraka in Lanao del Sur, Western Samar, General Santos City, and Quezon province, in addition to more local government units within the NCR. The initiative seeks to address educational gaps by providing targeted tutoring services to non- and struggling readers in elementary schools.
A significant component of the program's kickoff in Cebu City involves the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) by Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, and Cebu Normal University (CNU) President Dr. Daniel Ariaso Sr. This agreement will solidify the collaborative efforts between the DSWD, local government, and state universities and colleges to implement the 'Tara Basa!' program effectively.
Lopez highlighted the program's multi-faceted approach to education, which includes not only the provision of reading sessions for children but also support mechanisms for their parents and guardians. Cash-for-work opportunities will be offered to adults in exchange for their participation in 'Nanay-Tatay' learning sessions, which are designed to assist in the educational development of their children.
Furthermore, the initiative will engage 2nd- to 4th-year college students as tutors, who will be responsible for teaching reading skills to the beneficiary children. Youth development workers will also play a critical role by facilitating sessions for parents and guardians, focusing on parenting guidance and support.
This expanded rollout of the 'Tara Basa!' program underscores the DSWD's commitment to enhancing the educational landscape in the Philippines by fostering a comprehensive learning ecosystem for children and their families.