CATCH-UP FRIDAYS: A GAME-CHANGER FOR FILIPINO EDUCATION

ARLBIE G. GARCIA

In response to the Philippines' profound educational challenges, the Department of Education (DepEd) has introduced a groundbreaking initiative called Catch-up Fridays. Set to commence on January 12, 2024, this program aims to confront the alarming 91 percent learning poverty rate among 10-year-old Filipino pupils.

Catch-up Fridays strategically concentrate on enhancing foundational skills, specifically targeting areas such as reading, mathematics, values, health, and peace education. This innovative approach is a direct response to the urgent need for improvements across various facets of the education system, addressing critical issues that hinder the progress of Filipino students.

The initiative's emphasis on foundational skills is underscored by the concerning state of reading skills among Filipino pupils, as highlighted by the World Bank's 2022 findings. The revelation that Filipino children struggle with age-appropriate texts raises concerns about their future prospects. Consequently, Catch-up Fridays prioritize reading, critical thinking, and analysis to confront this challenge head-on.

The timing of Catch-up Fridays aligns strategically with the imminent release of the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 evaluations. Anticipating potentially unfavorable results, Vice President/Secretary Sara Duterte has shifted the focus towards learning recovery. This adjustment underscores the necessity to fortify students' skills in reading, mathematics, and science, aligning closely with the objectives of the Catch-up initiative.

In essence, Catch-up Fridays embody a proactive response to identified educational challenges, concentrating on foundational skills and committing to addressing the learning poverty rate among Filipino pupils. The integration of this program with broader education reform endeavors and alignment with international assessments emphasizes a comprehensive approach to enhance the quality of education in the Philippines.

Catch-up Fridays are not merely a scheduling adjustment; they serve as a potent remedy to the issues within the Philippine education system. This initiative, with its dedicated emphasis on foundational skills, provides a glimpse of optimism for a more promising educational future. However, its success hinges on meticulous implementation, addressing potential challenges like teacher availability and personalized support for struggling students.

Embracing Catch-up Fridays is a call for collective action. With educators, parents, and policymakers uniting behind this transformative initiative, we hold the key to uplifting our educational landscape. Catch-up Fridays stand as a beacon of positive change, highlighting that the future of our nation is deeply connected to the quality of our children's education. Together, we shape a brighter and more promising tomorr ow.

-oOoTHE AUTHOR IS TEACHER II AT PULUNG SANTOL NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL