MARAWI CITY (PIA)--Mayor Majul Gandamra lauded the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) "Tara, Basa!" tutoring program, emphasizing its role in fostering a dynamic learning within the community.

Beyond merely providing academic assistance, Gandamra highlighted the program's mission to establish a supportive community where every child can thrive, evolve, and envision a brighter future. 

During the program's memorandum of agreement (MoA) signing on February 15, the mayor also underscored the significance of creating an environment that actively engages parents through Nanay-Tatay sessions, empowering them to play an integral role in their children's educational journey.

The tutoring program aims to address educational challenges faced by elementary-level learners, particularly those with difficulty in reading, including college students with financially challenged backgrounds. 

Set to benefit 1,500 incoming Grade 2 learners in Marawi, the program strategically targets 800 learners from formal schools and 700 from Madrasah, an institution specializing in Arabic language and Islamic education. 

College students, identified through a partnership with the Mindanao State University Main campus, will serve as tutors and youth development workers.

"By capacitating and deploying college students as tutors and youth development workers, we are not only enhancing the academic skills of our children but also nurturing a generation of compassionate and empowered youth leaders," the mayor remarked.

Firmly grounded in the belief that education is the most powerful tool for societal transformation, Gandamra conveyed his unwavering commitment to ensuring the success of the "Tara, Basa!" program in the city.

The tutoring program will start between May and July this year, once selected college students complete the required social preparation and capability-building activities. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)