CTE Graduate School Launches Reading Literacy Program at Yakan Village

 

The College of Teacher Education (CTE) Graduate School officially launched its Reading Literacy Program in Yakan Village, Upper Calarian, Zamboanga City, aiming to uplift the community’s literacy and preserve cultural heritage.

Dr. Analyn D. Saavedra, CTE Extension Projects Coordinator, emphasized the program’s goal of giving back to the indigenous Yakan community. "Gone are the days when we collect data and never return. We want to change the perception that indigenous peoples are merely research subjects," she said during the program's orientation and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing on December 30, 2023.

The initiative directly responds to a research grant from the Commission on the Filipino Language, awarded to the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) in 2018. "After the research, we asked ourselves what we could give back to the Yakan community. That’s why we’re here today," Saavedra added.

The program focuses on reading literacy and is part of a broader effort to support culture preservation and skill development. "This extension program not only addresses the community's needs but also promotes skill literacy and cultural preservation," Saavedra explained, recognizing the support of WMSU President Maria Carla Otchetrina and Vice President Dr. Joel Fernando.

Dr. Arnel R. Madrazo, Chair of the CTE Graduate School, reiterated the importance of literacy in the program, stating, "We chose to join the literacy umbrella, with a focus on reading literacy." He emphasized the significance of collaboration with other departments, including Accountancy, to provide comprehensive community support.

The launch was attended by the Yakan community, represented by their tribal leader, and Ph.D. students from the CTE Graduate School, reinforcing the program's commitment to education and cultural empowerment.