i.STAre (Inspiring Service Through Action, Resilience, and Empowerment)

Authors: Eugenio S. Guhao, Jonrey Y. Torrevillas
Journal: Journal of University of Mindanao's Best Practices | Vol. 1, No. 1, July 2026
DOI:
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Abstract

The i.STAre (Inspiring Service Through Action, Resilience, and Empowerment) Program is a community-driven educational support initiative of the University of Mindanao Professional Schools designed to assist financially challenged Student Training Assistants (STAs). While the University's STA Program offers students opportunities to continue their education, it provides support and additional financial assistance tailored to STA`s specific and daily needs.

Launched in 2012 with free lunches and later enhanced in 2022 with cash assistance by the Professional Schools faculty, the program mobilizes faculty members and respective program coordinators to provide voluntary financial assistance and essential support to the STAs assigned to the Professional Schools. The initiative seeks to create a culture of shared responsibility, compassion, and bayanihan while ensuring that PS-assigned STAs remain enrolled and successfully complete their tertiary education.

The program primarily benefits Student Training Assistants who are still assigned to UM PS. Key activities include beneficiary identification and assessment, resource mobilization, distribution of financial support, mentoring, and continuous monitoring of student progress. Through collective action and institutional commitment, the project addresses barriers to educational access while promoting student well-being and academic persistence.

By strengthening educational opportunities for vulnerable students, the i.STAre program contributes to the University's mission of transformative education and advances the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals related to poverty, well-being, education, and reduced inequalities.

Keywords

Service, Resilience, Empowerment