Project TARA advances scholarship prep, expands tutorial reach in Region 12

After producing hundreds of MSU-SASE and DOST-SEI passers, Project Tutorial and Review for All (TARA) has returned for its third run, guiding an even larger group of grade 12 students who are vying for the same dream.

Instigated by the MSU GenSan Association of DOST Scholars, in partnership with various volunteers and SK councils, the tutoring initiative continues to equip senior high school students in their preparation for scholarship opportunities, opening doors for the new batch of iskolar ng bayan across Region 12.

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Behind the Tutor

For the project proponent, Moch Al Coreinee Sayce, Project TARA’s third year signifies not only its persistence, but also its development. 

“From when it was pioneered by our former president, Engr. Mherzel T. Apusaga, it has reached multiple barangays and partners. Being on its third year, we see not just continuity but also maturity in the way volunteers, scholars, and communities work together for one goal: to provide free and accessible learning support,” he stated.

Sayce acknowledged that this year’s preparations were constrained by time, leaving them with only a week to prepare, but they were still able to develop standardized reviewers, train tutors, closely coordinate with partner SK councils, and organize logistics across barangays to ensure a smooth simultaneous session.

He added that several changes were introduced this year, including a recognition day for tutors and facilitators to formally acknowledge their service and volunteerism which greatly contributed in sustaining the initiative.

Furthermore, Sayce said that the team envisions expanding to more barangays and partnering with schools and cooperatives, while also exploring hybrid review sessions to reach students who may not be physically present. 

From Aspirant to Scholar

John Rodolph Aguinaldo, an alumnus of Project TARA, now a DOST-SEI scholar and a second year Civil Engineering student in MSU-GSC, expressed his motivation in volunteering for the very tutorial initiative that helped shape his academic journey.

“Through Project TARA, we are giving the youth, especially the marginalized, a chance to learn, to enter college, and to have a scholarship. The youth is still the hope, one day, they will also pass it forward and be an iskolar ng bayan, para sa bayan,” he shared.

Looking back, Aguinaldo expressed how underprepared he could have been if it weren’t for Project TARA.

“Without it, I think I would have taken the exam underprepared and I might have not gotten my preferred course and scored lower,” he recalled.

When he learned that he had passed both exams, Aguinaldo shared that he felt happy not only for himself, but ultimately for his family, stating that it was an answered prayer to pursue higher education without causing financial burden to his parents.

Next in Line

Abbygail Elyn B. Salvador, one of this year’s tutees, described her Project TARA experience, citing how both the project and MSUan tutors made her more prepared for the upcoming exams.

“So far, the tutorial has been a great help because it provides ideas on the possible questions I may face in the actual examination, making me prepared and ready instead of going in with a blank mind. In addition, the valuable tips shared by the MSUan tutors have also made me more aware of the important dos and don’ts during the exam,” she expressed.

Salvador also remarked that being granted a slot in MSU and DOST-SEI scholarship is a privilege that carries responsibility.

“For me, it means a once-in-a-lifetime chance to pursue my dreams, secure a stable future, and live out my true purpose. More than just a scholarship or admission, I see MSU and DOST scholarship as a symbol of hope, a privilege, and a chance to break barriers for my family—because not everyone is given the honor of becoming an iska or isko,” she stated.

When asked about how confident she feels to take the examinations, Salvador rated it an 8/10, saying that it was higher than before she joined Project TARA.

“The program has strengthened what I already had, but I know there are still areas I need to explore and improve. With that said, I will use the remaining two weeks before the entrance examination to keep learning and pushing myself further,” she added.

Salvador also suggested that while Project TARA was effectively implemented, its impact could be doubled by increasing available slots, expanding to more schools, and strengthening partnerships with local leaders.