Beyond Academia: Basilan State College's Extension Program and Its Impact on Community Transformation in Basilan Province

Basilan State College's Extension Program has been implemented in various communities in Basilan Province, Philippines. This qualitative study aimed to investigate the impact of the Extension Program in Barangay Linuan, Al-barka Municipality, Philippines. Through purposive sampling, the study gathered data from 20 participants, including community members, local officials, and program implementers. The study used semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis as its primary data collection methods. The findings revealed that the Extension Program has significantly contributed to community transformation in Barangay Linuan, particularly in the areas of Peace Education, Financial Literacy, Islamic Education, Agricultural Programs, Health Education, Skills Programs, And Livelihood Programs. The program has also successfully provided community services such as Iftar Program during month of Ramadhan, Qurbani Program, Orphans Program, Wedding Program, and Constructed a School Building and Community Center through its partnership with the World Assembly of Muslim Youth (WAMY). The Extension Program's positive impact is attributed to the program's community-oriented and participatory approach that engages the community members in identifying their needs and implementing the programs. Moreover, the study found that the Extension Program has strengthened the partnership between the college and the community, leading to a collaborative effort in addressing community issues. The study's conclusion recommends the college to continue implementing the Extension Program in Barangay Linuan and other communities in Basilan Province to promote community development and transformation. Additionally, the study suggests further research to examine the long-term impact of the Extension Program on community development