The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has signed an agreement with Romblon State University (RSU) and the Local Government Unit of Odiongan for the 2025 implementation of the Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program, an initiative aimed at supporting college students while improving the reading skills of public elementary learners.
Undersecretary Edu Punay of the DSWD’s Innovations and Program Development Group (IPDG) said the agency has partnered with 66 State and Local Universities and Colleges (S/LUCs), including RSU, which will be responsible for screening 2nd to 4th year college students from low-income families as potential beneficiaries of the program.
“The Tara, Basa! program not only provides financial aid to college students but also helps address the reading challenges of young learners. Through this partnership, we hope to strengthen education and social development at the grassroots level,” Punay said.
A ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was held at the Municipal Office in Dapa, Surigao del Norte on February 28, where the DSWD formalized its collaboration with various LGUs and S/LUCs nationwide.
Under the agreement, participating universities will facilitate the matching and deployment of tutors to public elementary schools, while LGUs will oversee the program’s implementation, provide logistical support, and ensure the safety of DSWD personnel involved.
Through this initiative, college students will serve as tutors and Youth Development Workers (YDWs), conducting 20 learning sessions to enhance the reading proficiency of elementary pupils. Additionally, parents and guardians will participate in Nanay-Tatay Teacher sessions, promoting at-home learning support.
The Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program operates under a cash-for-work scheme, where college tutors will receive compensation based on the regional daily minimum wage. The tutoring sessions are scheduled from May to June.
“When we assumed office, we envisioned transforming DSWD programs from mere dole-outs into initiatives that empower communities. We see our tutors as future leaders who will contribute to nation-building under the Bagong Pilipinas vision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.,” Punay added.
Declared a flagship program of the national government under Executive Order 76, the Tara, Basa! initiative is a collaboration between the DSWD and the Department of Education (DepEd), reinforcing efforts to improve literacy while providing financial support to students in need.
