Empower Underserved Learners in the Philippines

Accomplishment Report: Programa Genio’s Community Rebuilding Project (January - Mar 2025)

Objective

The primary goal of Programa Genio's Community Rebuilding Project is to empower marginalized communities, particularly Alternative Learning System (ALS) teachers and learners, by fostering development, knowledge, attitude, skills, and habits (KASH). The project, implemented from January to March 2025, sought to provide resources, training, and partnerships to improve ALS education and livelihood opportunities, particularly for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL). This initiative was made possible through the strong partnership between the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), the Department of Education (DepEd), and the Bureau of Alternative Education (BAE).

Key Activities and Accomplishments

1. Resource Distribution
• Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm: Laptops, printers, TVs, and tablets were provided to ALS teachers and learners in Iwahig, enhancing their educational experience and promoting digital literacy.
• BJMP and Davao City: Tablets and TVL (Technical-Vocational Livelihood) equipment were distributed to support ALS learners' livelihood programs in Davao City’s Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).
• Community Learning Centers (CLCs) and School Divisions: Monitors were given to various CLCs and school divisions, improving the learning infrastructure and supporting digital integration in ALS programs.

1. Training Programs

• Emotional Resilience and Stress Management Training: ALS teachers and community members were trained on building emotional resilience, equipping them with the skills to handle challenges and maintain their well-being.
• ICT and Reading Strategies: Teachers were provided with training in ICT strategies to improve their teaching methods and reading programs to enhance literacy.
• Career Coaching: Career coaching sessions were conducted in Dumaran, Capiz, Tabgon, and Romblon, helping learners explore career pathways and employment opportunities.

1. STEM Education Enhancement

• In Romblon, Programa Genio contributed to the enhancement of STEM education by conducting specialized training for both teachers and learners, promoting innovation and critical thinking.

1. Redefining Scholarship Program

• Beneficiaries for the Redefining Scholarship Program were selected, with initial monitoring of their immersion experiences. This program aims to support the educational aspirations of underserved students by providing financial assistance for their internships and mentorships.

1. DOST Partnership for Starbooks Deployment

• Programa Genio continued its collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to deploy Starbooks, an interactive digital library, for

ALS learners. This initiative expands access to learning resources and information for marginalized students.

1. Scholarship Monitoring

• Scholars under the Programa Genio scholarship were met and interviewed in their workplaces and schools, assessing their progress and preparing them for future graduation.

Through the concerted efforts of its partners, Programa Genio has significantly contributed to the improvement of ALS education and the empowerment of marginalized communities. By providing essential resources, conducting capacity-building training, and fostering partnerships with key agencies like BJMP, DepEd, and, DOST, ProgramaGenio has laid a solid foundation for continued growth in the ALS sector. The impact of these initiatives will continue to resonate in the communities served, as they strengthen learners’ skills, resilience, and readiness for brighter futures.