On March 29, 2026, the Mathematics Department of Rizal Technological University’s (RTU) College of Education (CEd), led by Asst. Prof. Belen B. Balbuena conducted a community learning session for 20 youth participants from Brgy. Addition Hills, Mandaluyong City, is enhancing its basic mathematical and analytical skills through an extension program called “UPventure in Math: Building Strong Foundations in Mathematics”. The program was conducted in partnership with the Unang Hakbang Foundation and was assisted by the CEd-Mathematics Department.
The program was designed to strengthen learners’ foundational skills in mathematics, with a focus on number sense, operations, and problem-solving. It also provided pre-service teachers with authentic teaching experiences, bridging theory and practice in a real-world setting.
Community partners emphasized the importance of interventions that make mathematics meaningful, enjoyable, and connected to everyday life. This program responded by offering activity-based lessons that encouraged participation, collaboration, and reflection.
The day’s learning journey was anchored in three proper lesson sessions. The first lesson on Addition introduced learners to manipulative-based activities that made abstract concepts concrete, allowing them to experience the process of combining numbers through interactive exercises. The second lesson on Subtraction emphasized active participation, using concrete models and movement-based tasks to help learners visualize subtraction as a dynamic process.
The third lesson on Multiplication highlighted equal grouping and cooperative problem-solving, enabling participants to grasp multiplication as a practical and analytical tool. Each session was enriched with guided questioning, reflective practice, and interactive strategies that reinforced mastery and retention.
Throughout the program, learners demonstrated growth in computation skills, critical thinking, and confidence in applying mathematical concepts. Their active engagement in lessons and cooperative activities reflected the effectiveness of the outreach in making mathematics accessible and empowering. At the same time, pre-service teachers gained valuable experiential learning, enhancing their competence and readiness to inspire future classrooms.
This outreach activity stands as a strong example of how extension services can transform education. By combining foundational mathematics instruction with creativity, cooperation, and reflective practice, the program empowered learners to build confidence and competence while equipping future educators with meaningful teaching experiences. It highlighted the University’s dedication to inclusive education, community partnership, and the advancement of learning through service.