ABSTRACT
This study examined the experiences of Students-at-Risk of Dropping Out (SARDO) participating in Youth Development Sessions (YDS) of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) using a qualitative phenomenological approach. Ten (10) SARDO learners were identified and selected as primary respondents to provide data through in-depth interviews.
Results indicate that school-based YDS significantly contributed to increased learner engagement, improved academic performance, enhanced self-confidence, and strengthened values and life skills. Key success factors include contextualized session topics, interactive and differentiated activities, and learner-centered facilitation. The study recommends enhancing YDS modules, strengthening youth-focused interventions, expanding mentoring and psychosocial support services, and reinforcing collaboration among schools, families, and communities to improve school retention and reduce dropout rates.
Keywords: Experiences; Students-at-Risk of Dropping Out; Youth Development Sessions; Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program; Program Intervention
INTRODUCTION
One of the major concerns confronting educational institutions today is the increasing number of Students-at-Risk of Dropping Out (SARDO). These learners are characterized by persistent school absenteeism and have been identified as high-risk cases due to various interrelated factors. These include, but are not limited to, early pregnancy or early fatherhood, early cohabitation, child labor, being a working student, caring for younger siblings, assisting parents with household responsibilities, insufficient financial resources, and behavioral concerns.
Given the heightened vulnerability of these learners to peer pressure, early pregnancy, substance abuse, social media-related risks, and other adverse influences that may lead to chronic absenteeism, juvenile delinquency, and problematic behaviors, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) institutionalized a specialized development intervention for the youth. Through National Advisory Council Resolution No. 34, series of 2016, the Youth Development Session (YDS) under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) was established to enhance youths’ life coping skills, promote positive life perspectives, and nurture character formation toward holistic personal growth and development.
To align with established inter-agency mandates and roles, recent policy guidelines provide for the gradual transition of school-based Youth Development Sessions to the Department of Education (DepEd), which is institutionally positioned to deliver age-appropriate, values-based, and curriculum-integrated youth education. In recent consultations, DepEd expressed openness to adopting the existing YDS modules developed under the 4Ps as part of its educational offerings. Complementarily, the DSWD continues to collaborate closely with DepEd by strengthening youth development initiatives through the Parenting Effectiveness Service (PES), thereby ensuring a more holistic and family-centered approach to adolescent well-being.
In light of these policy developments and collaborative efforts, it is imperative that government-implemented educational programs undergo regular assessment to determine their effectiveness and address implementation challenges. The findings of this study aim to serve as a basis and guide for the Department of Education in identifying areas for improvement, particularly in parental engagement, motivational support, and instructional strategies. Ultimately, the study sought to contribute to the enhancement of the Youth Development Session as an educational intervention for Students-at-Risk of Dropping Out.
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