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The Secret Weapon of Technical Education in the Philippines: How TESDA is Transforming Vocational Training?!
In an era of change and opportunity, the Technical Vocational Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) of the Philippines is leading the innovation of vocational training in its own unique way. As a government agency, TESDA’s mission is not only to provide technical training, but also to cultivate a Filipino workforce with “world-class capabilities and positive work values.” In this article, we will explore how TESDA is changing the vocational training system in the Philippines and the impact of these changes on the future labor market.
TESDA’s Origin and History
The roots of technical and vocational education can be traced back to the Occupations Act of 1927. Over time, this system has undergone numerous reforms and adjustments, gradually forming today's TESDA. On this occasion, the Technical Education and Skills Development Act of 1994 enacted by the Philippine Congress marked the official establishment of TESDA, an agency aimed at integrating multiple education and technical training institutions and streamlining administrative procedures.
TESDA’s modern role
TESDA's main mission is to develop a comprehensive mid-level human resource development program, with industry-based training programs at its core, including apprenticeships and dual employment options.
Through market-driven programs, TESDA ensures that the vocational training provided is aligned with current and future labor market needs. For example, the various courses offered by TESDA are not limited to technical skills but also include work ethics and soft skills required to increase employability.
Assessment and certification
According to TESDA, trainees who complete vocational training will receive national certification, which not only proves their professional competence in the occupational field, but also provides them with a competitive advantage in the job market. With the acceleration of globalization, more and more employers prefer job seekers with national certificates.
Effects and data
As of 2011, the overall employment rate of technical and vocational education graduates reached 60.9%, while the scholarship graduates who demonstrated higher employability reached 61.7%.
From the data, we can see that TESDA not only encourages trainees to actively participate in technical training, but also provides them with opportunities to obtain stable jobs. Specifically, enterprise-oriented training programs have the highest employment rates, demonstrating the practical utility of these models.
Diverse vocational training programs
TESDA offers technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programmes in various forms, such as school-based programmes, centre-based programmes, community-based programmes and enterprise-based programmes. These different forms of training are dedicated to meeting the needs of different groups, especially vulnerable groups with high unemployment rates.
School Project
The school program is formal vocational training provided directly by TESDA, which helps students obtain professional qualifications through a diverse curriculum of up to three years.
Community Projects
Community programs targeting special community needs mainly provide basic skills training and encourage self-employment and entrepreneurship.
TESDA's Social Impact
As TESDA continues to promote the popularization of vocational training, many studies have shown that job seekers with technical or vocational education backgrounds are increasingly in demand in the labor market. This will not only help them find stable jobs, but also improve their family's financial situation.
Future Prospects and Challenges
While TESDA has made significant achievements in improving vocational training, it still faces challenges, such as how to further adapt to rapidly changing technological needs and how to strengthen collaboration with businesses to promote internships and employment opportunities.
ConclusionTESDA, as the driving force of technical education in the Philippines, is working to improve the quality and quantity of the workforce. Government support and social cooperation will be the key to future development. Through vocational training, TLSDA has not only changed the lives of countless people, but also paved the way for the future of the country. As technology changes rapidly, how do you think technology education should evolve in the future to meet these needs?
