West Visayas State University–College of Education (WVSU-COE), through its Division of Special Needs Education, launched Project SABAT as an extension initiative in partnership with the Iloilo City Government on Sept. 16, 2026, at the Iloilo City Hall Penthouse.

Project SABAT, or Capacitating Implementers towards Strategic Actions for Better Accessibility of TAWAG Center in Iloilo City, was launched alongside the Iloilo City Government’s EDU-GO Program, a citywide education and literacy initiative aimed at strengthening learning opportunities for children, youth, and adults.

The WVSU extension project seeks to enhance the knowledge and strengthen the skills of child development teachers in providing appropriate support and services to children with special needs. It also aims to reinforce collaboration among families, communities, and other stakeholders in bringing inclusive services closer to learners.

The project is led by Dr. Micron Rey B. Fuego, with Dr. Sherbet H. Consebit, Assoc. Prof. Rosalea Cornelia A. de Leon, Dr. Myra Angelie D. Oliveros, Dr. Ma. Teresa S. Caritativo, Assoc. Prof. Helen Joy Rivera, Instructor Laden C. Huervas, and Asst. Prof. Marrissa O. Ong as members of the extension team.

The launch formed part of the city government’s broader education and literacy campaign, which introduced seven EDU-GO components focused on different learning needs: EDU-GO Sugod for early childhood foundations; EDU-GO Upod for learners with disabilities and those needing additional support; EDU-GO Basa for reading, numeracy, and comprehension; EDU-GO Balik for out-of-school youth and adults; EDU-GO Level-up for skills development; EDU-GO Pamilya for family and community participation; and EDU-GO Talaan for tracking learners’ needs and progress.

Through Project SABAT, WVSU-COE contributes its expertise in special needs education to the city’s continuing efforts to expand accessible and inclusive learning opportunities. The initiative further strengthens the University’s extension engagement with local government and communities in addressing educational needs and supporting learners with diverse needs.

The project also reflects one of the missions of WVSU-COE as a recognized Center of Excellence in Teacher Education—to extend its expertise and contribute to the continuous development of educators and learning communities through responsive, inclusive, and community-oriented initiatives.