KAYAG NATIN 'TO: THE CHALLENGES OF THE KAYAG KAYAG STRATEGY IN REINTEGRATING OUT-OF-SCHOOL YOUTH IN VALENZUELA CITY INTO EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

<p>In contemporary society, education is a key driver of individual and community development. However, many young individuals in the Philippines, particularly those aged 15 to 24, remain excluded from formal education. These out-of-school youth (OSY) face barriers such as economic constraints, family responsibilities, geographical challenges, and systemic inequalities. The KayagKayag Strategy (KKS), initiated by the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela (PLV) Office of the Community Engagement and Extension Services (OCEES), addresses this issue through community based interventions aimed at reintegrating OSYs into educational institutions. This study provides a midterm analysis of the challenges faced by the Kayag-Kayag Approach in Valenzuela City, utilizing a descriptive research method to identify obstacles in engaging, motivating, and retaining OSYs. Findings highlight socio-economic barriers, informational gaps, and insufficient institutional support. The study recommends stronger support systems, improved coordination, and increased community involvement to enhance the program's effectiveness. It also calls for future research to track the longterm impact of the program on OSYs' educational achievements and personal development. This research aims to support the continuous improvement of the Kayag-Kayag Approach, fostering the reintegration of OSYs into educational institutions and promoting socio-economic development in Valenzuela City.</p>