CATCH-UP FRIDAYS: A REVOLUTIONARY INITIATIVE FOR QUALITY EDUCATION

RACHEL P. BALAJADIA

In the journey to improve quality education and foster a culture of reading among learners, VicePresident and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sara Duterte has introduced an innovative program known as 'Catch-Up Fridays'. This initiative is a testament to her commitment to make every learner a reader and enhance the educational landscape in the Philippines.

Catch-Up Fridays is a program designed to address the literacy gaps among learners by dedicating every Friday to reading activities. The program aims to develop a love of reading, strengthen comprehension abilities, and eventually raise pupils' general academic achievement. The first half of the days will be spent on operationalizing the National Reading Program while the remaining half days will focus on fostering Values Education, Peace Education, and Health Education. Homeroom Guidance will also be included of the program.

Catch-Up Fridays have a variety of effects on students. First of all, it helps students develop a culture of reading by integrating reading into their academic lives. This enhances their literacy abilities by exposing learners to a variety of ideas and viewpoints.

The program aids in improving the comprehension skills of learners. Regular reading exercises help students understand complex ideas, follow complicated plot developments, and interpret information accurately. This makes the learners improve their comprehension skills. Reading with understanding is a fundamental skill necessary for learning.

Finally, Catch-Up Fridays promotes students' development as independent readers. Catch-up Fridays give individuals the freedom to take charge of their education by giving them the time and space to read at their speed. This cultivates a sense of accountability and self-control, qualities that are extremely beneficial in both their personal and academic life.

-oOoTHE AUTHOR IS TEACHER III AT SAN PABLO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STA. ANA DISTRICT