The Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd) program at the UNP College of Teacher Education (CTE) extended its reading literacy program, Project DUR-AS (Dagiti Ubbing Raemenda Ti Adal Ken Siyensiya), on February 14, 2025, at Salindeg-Pong-ol Barraca Elementary School (SPBES). This initiative, now in its second year, aims to enhance pupils’ reading performance.

Extensionists were divided into three groups to support beginning, slow, and struggling readers at the school. The program integrated “fun in learning” through games and activities to make learning to read more engaging. Valentine’s gifts were also given to the students. Such programs develop the pupils’ interest to love learning and the competence they need in the classroom setting.

BEEd programs prepare aspiring educators to teach at the elementary level, developing competent teacher-researchers who specialize in elementary education content and pedagogy. These programs equip graduates with skills in communication, higher-order thinking, and the use of technology to accelerate learning and teaching.

The success of Project DUR-AS highlights CTE’s commitment to community engagement and its dedication in developing the passion of reading among young learners; and by providing targeted support and creating a positive learning environment, the BEEd program is making a tangible difference in the lives of SPBES pupils, empowering them to become confident and capable readers and life-long learners. This initiative exemplifies the CTE’s mission to develop future educators who are not only skilled in pedagogy but also deeply committed to serving their communities.

Article by Fely De Guzman.