RISE - About

About RISE

Project RISE is a literacy program that addresses learning poverty by strengthening early-grade reading instruction through teacher training, instructional material development, and sustained post-training support for Grades 1–3 teachers. The project adopts a cohort-based approach, in which learners are continuously monitored and supported from Grade 1 to Grade 3 to ensure consistent literacy development over time. The project commenced last September 2024 and runs until August 2029.

Project RISE partners with 10 public schools in Iligan City, the majority of whose learners come from low-income communities. To support classroom implementation, the project co-develops and provides teachers and learners with weekly lesson plans and instructional resources, including worksheets, posters, flashcards, slide decks, reading booklets, and illustrated children’s stories. Beyond the project team's direct involvement, pre-service teachers serve as Reading Ambassadors, assisting with learner assessment and conducting remediation activities, thereby providing them with valuable field-based training in literacy instruction and intervention. The project also engages stakeholders, including parents and communities, to support literacy development. Funded by VLIR-UOS, RISE leverages foreign support but recognizes that its success also depends on collaboration with local stakeholders.

In support of sustainability and innovation, the project is establishing a Literacy Innovation Laboratory (LitLab) that will serve as a resource and training hub for literacy education. The LitLab will provide a space for developing, testing, and sharing evidence-based reading interventions, instructional materials, assessment tools, and professional development initiatives for teachers. It will also function as a collaborative center where teachers, researchers, pre-service teachers, school leaders, and community stakeholders can work together to strengthen literacy instruction and address contextual challenges in early-grade reading. Through the LitLab, Project RISE aims to build a sustainable ecosystem for literacy innovation, continuous improvement, and research-informed practice.

Project RISE aligns with the recommendations of the Second Congressional Commission on Education by directly addressing foundational learning gaps and prioritizing early literacy development. By integrating teacher education, learner support, community engagement, and literacy research, Project RISE contributes to the broader national agenda to improve foundational education outcomes and reduce learning poverty among Filipino learners.

Our Goals

Partnership

At the heart of Project RISE is its commitment to multi-stakeholder collaboration. By bringing together the expertise of local schools, parents, universities like KU Leuven and University College Limburg, and civil society organizations, the project ensures that literacy interventions are contextually relevant and responsive to the needs of Filipino learners.

Teacher Upskilling and Support

The project recognizes that teachers are pivotal in shaping students’ success. As such, a core focus of the project is enhancing the competencies of Grades 1-3 teachers. By offering co-creation workshops, capacity-building programs, and action research opportunities, Project RISE is committed to empowering teachers with the skills and tools they need to teach reading effectively, thereby improving student learning outcomes.

Instructional Materials Creation and Distribution

A cornerstone of Project RISE’s success is its focus on creating developmentally appropriate and contextually relevant instructional materials. These materials are designed in collaboration with teachers, leveraging research findings to ensure they align with local learning needs and cultural contexts. By integrating input from various stakeholders— local education authorities, and academic experts—Project RISE ensures that the materials not only meet educational standards but also resonate with the learners and their communities.

Parental Engagement

Parental engagement is one of the cornerstones of Project RISE, recognizing that a child's learning extends beyond the classroom. The project engages parents through workshops, training, and information-sharing activities, empowering them to participate actively in their children's literacy development. By fostering a deeper understanding of reading strategies, learning materials, and the importance of literacy, parents are better equipped to support their children's learning at home and realize the significant role they play in their children's education.

Reading Community

Project RISE envisions a vibrant reading community where educators, parents, students, and local stakeholders work together to nurture a reading culture. This community-based approach will not only increase the reach and effectiveness of reading programs but also ensure that the commitment to literacy is sustained beyond the project's life.

Our Reading Program

Inspiring Reading Excellence through Active Development (IREAD) Program

IREAD is a structured literacy initiative designed to enhance reading skills and foster a love of reading. It promotes active development through interactive activities and strategic support involving teachers, educational leaders, learners, parents, and community members. The program combines personalized literacy support with community-driven initiatives, aiming to improve reading skills and inspire a lifelong passion for reading through innovative, student-centered activities. Read more...