The Philippines’ educational system faces challenges, including a perceived gap between technical-vocational education and training (TVET) and industry needs.
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), established in 1994, aimed to tackle this gap. Recent congressional hearings raised concerns. There are overlapping mandates between TESDA and the Department of Education (DepEd). The DepEd implemented the K-12 program in 2012.
The congressional hearing invites Dr. Tony Galvez who is an expert, pioneer, practitioner, entrepreneur, and advocate in high-quality education of technical and vocational education. Dr. Tony Galvez of TeVSAPhil highlights this overlap, citing how DepEd’s basic skills training overlaps with TESDA’s NC II courses. NC II graduates reportedly struggle to find employment due to a lack of specialized skills.
Lawmakers have questioned TESDA’s budget allocation and effectiveness in producing a qualified workforce. This, in turn, affects Filipino workers’ potential for higher wages.
The Senate is exploring solutions, including reviewing the effectiveness of the K-12 program.
