Call for EOIs: Improving the Learning Outcomes of Kindergarten to Grade 6 Learners in BARMM (Philippines)

Deadline: 10-Feb-2026

UNICEF invites grant applications to support learning recovery and quality education for disadvantaged children in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The initiative focuses on improving learning outcomes, teacher capacity, equitable access to culturally relevant materials, and targeted remediation for kindergarten to Grade 6 learners.

Program Overview

The program aims to strengthen the educational outcomes of children aged 5–11 in BARMM through structured, inclusive interventions. It emphasizes:

• Education and learning outcomes improvement

• Learning recovery and remedial support for disadvantaged learners

• Teacher capacity development and mentoring

• Equitable access to culturally relevant teaching and learning materials

• Increased participation of children in high-quality, structured learning programs

The initiative is implemented in collaboration with civil society organizations (CSOs) and NGOs, with oversight from the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE).

Key Components

1. Learning Recovery and Tutoring

   • Targeted support for children falling behind in reading and mathematics

   • Tailored interventions based on assessment results

   • Follow-up assessments to monitor progress

2. Teacher Capacity Development

   • Training sessions, coaching, and mentoring for teachers

   • Emphasis on inclusive, responsive teaching approaches

   • Support for culturally relevant pedagogy

3. Learning Materials and Classroom Support

   • Distribution of high-quality, locally and culturally relevant learning resources

   • Materials designed to enhance reading, comprehension, and numeracy skills

   • Tools for teachers to implement differentiated instruction

4. School-Level Monitoring System

   • Offline and online tools to track learning progress

   • Identification of learning gaps for timely interventions

   • Data-driven decision-making to optimize support

Who is Eligible?

• Civil society organizations (CSOs) operating in BARMM

• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with experience in education or child development

• Programs targeting children aged 5–11 (Kindergarten to Grade 6)

• Organizations capable of delivering tailored interventions and monitoring outcomes

Why It Matters

Many children in BARMM face barriers to accessing quality education due to conflict, displacement, and limited resources. This program:

• Ensures children catch up to grade-level expectations

• Promotes inclusive, culturally responsive education

• Strengthens teacher capacity to support disadvantaged learners

• Improves equity and participation in the education system

How to Apply / What to Do

1. Prepare a proposal detailing:

   • Target learners and locations

   • Learning recovery strategies and methodologies

   • Teacher training and mentoring plan

   • Monitoring and assessment framework

   • Timeline, budget, and expected outcomes

2. Collaborate with local schools and authorities for alignment with MBHTE policies

3. Submit application through the UNICEF-designated platform before the stated deadline

4. Ensure mechanisms are in place for follow-up assessments and progress tracking

Tips & Common Mistakes

• Do not propose generic programs; interventions must be data-driven and responsive

• Ensure proposals include culturally relevant materials

• Include a clear monitoring and evaluation plan for student outcomes

• Collaborate with schools and authorities to ensure feasibility

• Align teacher training with best practices and local curricula

FAQ

1. Who can apply? CSOs and NGOs working in BARMM with experience in education.

2. Which children benefit? Kindergarten to Grade 6 learners (ages 5–11).

3. What subjects are targeted? Reading and mathematics, with remediation support.

4. Is teacher training included? Yes, through sessions, coaching, and mentoring.

5. Are learning materials provided? Yes, culturally relevant materials for classroom use.

6. How is progress monitored? School-level offline and online tracking tools.

7. What is the project timeline? Activities follow a structured intervention cycle, including ongoing assessments.

Conclusion

This UNICEF Learning Recovery Grant provides an opportunity to strengthen educational outcomes for disadvantaged children in BARMM by combining teacher development, tailored learning interventions, and culturally relevant materials. Through evidence-based, inclusive approaches, grantees contribute to equitable access to quality education and long-term learning success in the region.

For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.