In a bid to address the growing need for skilled workers and improve employment opportunities, scholars were encouraged to take advantage of the various programs offered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
This call comes from TESDA-MEMAROPA Acting Assistant Regional Director Ben-hur Baniqued, who emphasized the importance of technical education and skills development for the youth of today.
During the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on December 17, Baniqued highlighted the role of TESDA in equipping individuals with practical skills that are significant in today’s fast-evolving job market.
He stressed that many of the agency’s programs provide opportunities for both scholars and workers to develop competencies that are in demand across various industries.
“We are not only offering training but also creating pathways to better employment. We want our scholars to understand that technical skills are highly valued by employers, and those who complete our programs are better positioned to secure stable jobs,” Baniqued said.
TESDA, a government agency dedicated to providing skills training and certification, has long been at the forefront of improving the employability of Filipinos. In recent years, the agency has expanded its reach by introducing new training courses, providing financial assistance for training, and partnering with industries to ensure that the skills taught match the needs of the labor market.
According to Baniqued, scholars should take full advantage of the wide array of TESDA programs that cater to various sectors such as information technology, healthcare, construction, agriculture, and hospitality, among others. These courses range from short-term certificate programs to longer, more specialized technical training designed to meet international standards.
Baniqued noted that TESDA’s partnership with local and international businesses offers scholars a chance to undergo on-the-job training, greatly enhancing their marketability.
“Nagtataguyod kami ng matibay na ugnayan sa mga pribadong kumpanya at mga industry leaders na tumutulong na i-refine ang mga training courses at magbigay ng mga opportunities para sa mga students. Magkakaroon ng kalamangan ang aming mga iskolar sa pagkakaroon ng trabaho agad pagkatapos ng kanilang pagtatapos sa pamamagitan ng pag-avail ng mga programs ng TESDA,” he said.
For students concerned about the cost of training, TESDA also offers various scholarship programs designed to lessen the financial burden. These scholarships are open to qualified individuals, especially those from marginalized sectors, and provide them with the necessary support to complete their courses without having to worry about tuition fees.
“The TESDA scholarship programs are part of our commitment to making technical education accessible to everyone. Our goal is to help as many individuals as possible gain the skills they need to improve their livelihoods,” Baniqued said.
As TESDA MIMAROPA continues to expand its network and services, it remains to create a more skilled, empowered, and employable workforce for the region.
For more information on available TESDA programs and how to apply for scholarships, interested individuals may visit TESDA’s official website or contact their local TESDA offices. (AS/PIA MIMAROPA-Oriental Mindoro)
