Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program: A University-Led Reading Intervention for Socioeconomic Empowerment

Abstract

Tara, Basa! is a university-led extension program that uses education as a tool for socioeconomic transformation and inclusive community development. Implemented by Northwest Samar State University in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, local government units, and public elementary schools, the program targeted foundational literacy gaps among incoming struggling Grade 2 learners in the Calbayog City and Samar Divisions. It also provided cash-for-work opportunities for college students from low-income families. Using a multi-sectoral approach, trained college student-tutors and youth development workers delivered structured reading recovery interventions supported by standardized literacy assessment tools and instructional modules. Complementing the child-focused efforts, the Nanay-Tatay Teacher Sessions involved parents and guardians to actively support literacy development at home, strengthening family engagement. Program evaluation results showed improved reading skills among participants, increased parental involvement, and better academic and socioeconomic support for college student-tutors. Beyond improving literacy, the program promoted youth engagement, community collaboration, and sustainable university–community partnerships. It offers a scalable model for higher education institutions to promote inclusive socioeconomic change, based on partnership, empowerment, and shared responsibility.