Empowering the Next Generation Through Basic Education and Literacy
By Karl Angelo Robles | Posted on September 5, 2025
Every September, the Rotary International celebrates Basic Education and Literacy Month across the globe; a time to renew our commitment to one of the most powerful tools for change: education. For Rotaractors and Rotarians, this month offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact, especially in the lives of young people by promoting literacy, learning, and access to quality education in our communities.
BULIG EDUKASYON (which means ‘help education’) is a 3-year old Basic Education and Literacy project of Rotaract Club of Midsayap (D3870)ย that aims to promote reading and number literacy among elementary pupils, while integrating fun-filled activities such as games, audio-visual storytelling and coloring activities through the municipal library and one-on-one tutorial. The program is conducted every Saturdays and Sundays of the whole Basic Education and Literacy Month.
Education is more than just classroom learning, it is the foundation for personal growth, economic opportunity, and social progress. Yet today, millions of children and youth around the world still lack access to basic education and literacy resources. The consequences are far-reaching: without the ability to read, write, and understand essential information, young people are denied a fair chance at a better future.
EDUCARE is the flagship banner project of the Rotaract Club of Cebu Fuente(D3860) since 2016, aimed at promoting education, wellness, and holistic development among children. Under this initiative are impactful activities such as Proper Handwashing Campaigns, Anti-Bullying Awareness, Book Drives, and Storytelling Sessions. Over the years, Educare has continuously empowered young learners by fostering good habits, nurturing kindness, and cultivating a love for readingโmaking it a lasting commitment of the club to build brighter and healthier futures for the next generation.
Literacy is liberation. It gives young people the tools to express themselves, to learn continuously, and to break cycles of poverty and inequality. It empowers them to become active citizens, future leaders, and agents of change.
Kwela Pa Eswela: A Celebration of Learning & Community is a flagship of the Rotaract Club of Chinatown-Manila (D3810) in partnership with Rotary Club of Chinatown Manila and Rotaract Club of Chiang Kai Shek College. This project aims to support education and empower students by providing tools for a brighter future.ย
As young leaders in service, Rotaractors play a vital role in advancing education and literacy in local communities. Whether by organizing reading sessions for children, donating school supplies, mentoring students, or launching digital literacy initiatives, Rotaractors are making education more accessible and inclusive.
The Rotaract Club of Raha Sulayman Volunteers (D3810) in partnership with the Rotary Club of Raha Sulayman Manila, conducted Kalayaan ng Kabataan, Linis at Gamit ang Laban held at Bacood Elementary School during the celebration of Philippine Independence Day on June 12, 2025, and the Brigada Eskwela 2025 week. The initiative highlighted both education and environmental stewardship as vital forms of freedom and resilience. A total of 100 school supply sets were distributed to indigent and fire-affected students, helping them continue their education with dignity and hope.
Rotaract clubs have the creativity, energy, and grassroots connections needed to identify local educational challenges and implement solutions that work. By focusing on literacy, we donโt just teach kids to read – we help them discover their voices, realize their dreams, and shape their futures.
While Rotaractors bring innovation and youth-led action, Rotarians provide experience, mentorship, and resources. Basic Education and Literacy Month is a powerful reminder of how these two generations of Rotary service can work hand-in-hand. This collaboration ensures that efforts are sustainable, strategic, and deeply rooted in the community’s needs.
The ๐๐จ๐ญ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ญ ๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ ๐จ๐ ๐๐๐ ๐ฌ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ฅ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐ก ๐๐ฅ๐จ๐๐จ๐ฌ ๐๐ฎ๐ซ (D3790) launched its first community service activity for Rotary Year 2025โ2026 through the initiative titled โ๐๐๐๐ฉ๐ ๐๐ฉ ๐ฟ๐ช๐ฃ๐ค๐ฃ๐, ๐ฝ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐จ๐ ๐๐๐ข๐ค๐ฃ.โ This meaningful outreach was held as part of the annual ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ฌ๐ค๐ฐ๐๐ฅ๐ ๐๐๐๐, with the goal of supporting learners as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
This month is not just a time to raise awareness, itโs a time to take meaningful action. Rotaract clubs around the world are encouraged to plan and implement projects that uplift learners, support teachers, and promote a culture of reading and education in their communities.
The Rotaract Club of Cebu Fuente – University of San Carlos (D3860) has basic education and literacy initiatives such as “Bookas Palad” a gift-giving project, and the “baLIK-HAndog” an artistic outreach program, both of which reflect our club’s commitment to promoting learning and creativity in the community.
Let this month be a call to serve with passion, lead with purpose, and collaborate with Rotarians, and other partners to amplify the impact and inspire more youth the to dream big, learn hard, and lead the future generations.
As we observe Basic Education and Literacy Month, let us remember that every book opened, every classroom built, and every young mind inspired is a step toward a better world.
The Rotaract Club of San Juanico (D3860) proudly hosted an Anti-bullying campaign entitled Stand Up, Speak Kind! Stop the Bullying! for 31 Grade 1-3 pupils of Banawang Elementary School, Brgy. Banawang Tunga, Leyte. We were able to impart to the young learners the importance of kindness, respect, and compassion toward one another โ values that create a safer and more supportive school environment.
Together, we have the power to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Letโs commit ourselves to this mission – not just in September, but every day.
