Cebu City Launches ‘Tara, Basa’ Reading Tutorials Program

Discover Cebu City’s new initiative, the ‘Tara, Basa’ reading tutorials program, aimed at enhancing student literacy through targeted tutoring sessions.

Program Launch with DSWD Secretary as Guest of Honor

The program will commence on July 3, 2024, with Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian attending as the guest of honor. This initiative aims to address reading literacy in the Philippines, focusing on elementary students encountering reading challenges.

Target Schools and Areas of ‘Tara, Basa’ Reading Tutorials Program

Carmelita Helen B. Francisco, head of the Cebu City Commission for the Welfare and Protection of Children (CCCWPC), confirmed that Senator Gatchalian will visit two Cebu City elementary schools—Hipodromo and Carreta. These schools have the highest number of incoming grade two students facing difficulties with reading.

Reach Across Barangays

Out of Cebu City’s 80 barangays, 34 elementary schools have been identified as needing reading tutorials, encompassing 4,865 students. The city plans to deploy 583 tutors across these barangays to meet these needs.

Training and Deployment

On March 8, 2024, the Cebu City Government signed an agreement with DSWD to implement the ‘Tara, Basa’ program. Recently, 583 tutors completed a four-day training session on effective teaching methods for children at Cebu Normal University, facilitated by DSWD Manila. These tutors will receive an honorarium of P485 per day during the 20-day tutorial sessions.

National Initiative Impact

Cebu City is among several regions nationwide selected to pilot this initiative. The program aims to improve literacy rates and provide educational opportunities for college students who will serve as tutors. According to a 2022 World Bank study, 90% of Filipino children struggle with basic reading and comprehension skills. By focusing on reading literacy in the Philippines, the “Tara, Basa” program seeks to make a significant impact on these statistics.

Comprehensive Approach

The program’s comprehensive approach to reading literacy in the Philippines involves collaboration between local government, educational institutions, and community stakeholders. This strategy ensures that the initiative addresses the root causes of illiteracy and provides sustainable solutions for long-term improvement.

The selection of Cebu City as a pilot area for the “Tara, Basa” reading tutorials program highlights the city’s commitment to enhancing educational outcomes. With many students needing assistance, the program’s deployment of well-trained tutors aims to bridge the gap in reading literacy in the Philippines. The tutors, who are college students, gain valuable teaching experience while contributing to their communities. This creates a win-win situation for both the tutors and the students they assist.

Alignment with Broader Goals

As part of the national initiative, the “Tara, Basa” reading tutorials program aligns with broader educational goals and policies aimed at reducing illiteracy rates. The program’s success in Cebu City could serve as a model for other regions. It showcases effective strategies for improving reading literacy in the Philippines. By prioritizing early intervention and consistent support, the program seeks to instill a love of reading and learning in young students. This sets them on a path to academic success.

Community Impact

The impact of the “Tara, Basa” program extends beyond immediate reading improvements. It fosters a culture of literacy and learning within the community. Additionally, it encourages parental involvement and support. This holistic approach ensures that students receive the necessary encouragement and resources to develop their reading skills, contributing to a more educated and empowered population.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ‘Tara, Basa’ program represents a significant step in combating illiteracy in the Philippines. By focusing on practical solutions and providing educational support for youth, it ensures every child has the opportunity to excel. Moreover, the program’s emphasis on reading literacy in the Philippines addresses a critical need. As the program unfolds, its impact on students and the community will serve as a testament of collaborative efforts.

Through targeted tutoring sessions and comprehensive support, the ‘Tara, Basa’ reading tutorials program aims to transform the educational landscape in Cebu City. By prioritizing reading literacy, the program not only tackles immediate challenges but also paves the way for a more literate future for the country’s youth.