23/04/2026
๐๐๐ ๐๐ง๐ฏ๐๐ข๐ฅ๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ ๐ซ๐๐ฆ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐๐ง ๐๐ข๐๐จ๐ฅ๐๐ฌ, ๐๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐๐ซ๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐๐ข๐ญ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ฒ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ฆ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ฒ ๐๐๐ฉ๐ฌ
On April 21, 2026, Guimaras State University (GSU) unveiled a community-based learning initiative in Barangay San Nicolas through the activity titled โUnveiling KARITON: Program Launching and Stakeholdersโ Orientation.โ The initiative, formally known as KARITON: Knowledge-Sharing for Advancing Reading and Numeracy through Intervention, Teaching, Outreach, and Networking, centers on addressing foundational learning gaps among young learners.
The program was initiated by Dr. Jasmin T. Gadian, Dean of the College of Teacher Education, under the supervision of the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, Training and Innovation led by Dr. Julius T. Vergara, with extension operations coordinated by Director Daisy B. Ibieza. It is being carried out in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and barangay officials, alongside the existing Pangibabaw Tabao project of San Nicolas Elementary School.
KARITON is structured to assist learners from Kindergarten to Grade 6 in strengthening reading and numeracy, while also extending academic support to selected high school students. Instructional focus is placed on alphabet knowledge, word recognition, and comprehensionโcore areas identified as recurring gaps among early-grade learners.
The launch drew parents, teachers, barangay officials, volunteers, and pre-service teachers who will serve as tutors. Learning sessions will be handled through guided instruction in Filipino, English, and Mathematics, with barangay-based volunteers supporting implementation on the ground. The approach also places weight on parental involvement, recognizing its role in reinforcing learning beyond structured sessions.
Faculty members from the College of Teacher Education were present to support the rollout, including Dr. Sol M. Basaรฑes (BSED Mathematics), Dr. Criste F. Dilag (BSED English), Dr. Joedar P. Satojito (BEED and Associate Dean), and Asst. Prof. Adora B. Gabayoyo (BSED Filipino). The group contributed to the preparation of instructional materials and teaching guides to be used by tutors during the programโs implementation.
During the orientation, Barangay Captain Hon. Raymund N. Gatinao addressed attendees and pointed to the role of shared effort in improving local education outcomes. Miss Marigold B. Ibieza presented the structure and intended direction of the program, while Director Daisy B. Ibieza spoke on the need for sustained support from parents and community volunteers.
The formal launch was led by Dr. Gadian, with closing remarks delivered by Dr. Satojito, who noted that the programโs continuity will depend on coordinated participation from all sectors involved.
With backing from GSU, DSWD, and the local barangay, KARITONโan initiative aligned with the broader direction of University President Dr. Lilian Diana B. Parreรฑoโis set to move into its next phase, focusing on capability-building for tutors and volunteers ahead of full implementation. The program is scheduled to run from 2026 to 2028, with activities to be carried out within the community it intends to serve.