ABSTRACT
This descriptive-evaluative research assessed The Livelihhood Skills Program of Iloilo Science and Technology University- Miagao Campus designed for indigeneous people residing at a barangay in the Municipality of Guimbal, Iloilo. Twenty program implementers and 25 program beneficiaires were given a research-made questionnaire to gather primary data. Secondary to gather primary from the files of University. Data were analyzed using frequency count, percentage, and mean. Findings revealed that the objectives, structure, and services of the program were well defined. As a whole, management capability was “very high”. Beneficiaries were “very highly involved” in the program. The programs had not much tangibles results among the beneficiaries mainly due to lack of financial support. However, beneficiaries’ sense of well-being along the personal/spiritual and social dimension was “very positive” but along the economic dimensions, it was negative. Problems in program implementation were identified. Measures to address the problems were recommended.
Keywords: livelihood skills program, beneficiaries’ involvement, management capabilities, outcomes
INTRODUCTION
There is a growing recognition of the significance of the extension services provided by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). They function as an intermediary between the academic institution and the community. In recent times, there has been a notable surge in interest surrounding the assessment of the necessity of extension programs by policymakers, with the aim of gaining a deeper comprehension of the academic sector's involvement in the process of community development.
The demand for extension services has experienced significant growth in both the Philippines and other nations. Also, it has been shown that communities actively involve residents and institutions in creating sustainable principles and a shared vision for the future while using an integrated strategy to reach environmental, economic, and social objectives which tend to be more effective (Garcia, 2017).
The Community Extension Program is an educational initiative that provides individuals with the opportunity to engage in a unique learning experience. It is important to exhibit kindness and compassion towards others as well as extend assistance to those who are less fortunate. Collaborating within a group setting and effectively exchanging ideas can provide challenges for certain students. According to Rubio (2016), the design of this particular intervention is to facilitate personal and societal enhancement.
According to Montalbo (2016), the Higher Education Modernization Act of 1997 in the Philippines stipulates that higher education institutions are required to engage in community extension initiatives.
The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), Miagao Campus, has been engaging in community extension initiatives within specific areas. One of the communities under consideration is the indigenous people residing in Sitio Igtuba, Barangay Camanggahan, Guimbal, Iloilo.This initiative aims to equip people with contemporary knowledge and skills that are relevant to their present-day lifestyle. The acquisition of these talents is a significant possibility for individuals to enhance their revenue generation and improve their standard of living.
The Industrial Technology Program of the University has played a significant role in leading various extension initiatives, such as livelihood skills training programs, as part of its commitment to contribute to community development through outreach programs. However, for several years that ISAT University Miagao Campus has been delivering its Livelihood Skills Program, no formal assessment, evaluation, or report has been made to determine the effects of the program on the beneficiaries. In addition, no studies have been conducted on any aspect or area of the program that needs improvement for a much better delivery of the said program.
Despite the fact that ISAT University Miagao Campus has been implementing its Livelihood Skills Program for a number of years, there has been a lack of rigorous assessment, evaluation, and report to ascertain the program's impact on the beneficiaries. Furthermore, there is a dearth of research undertaken on several facets and domains of the program that necessitate enhancements for a more effective implementation of the aforementioned program.
The study was done with the aim of addressing this information gap.
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