Nine (9) Higher Education Institution (HEI) partners took part in the 2024 HEI Consultation at TESDA XI Regional Training Center-Korea Philippines Vocational Training Center (RTC-KPVTC), Davao on Friday, November 29, 2024, at the Mini-Theater. The one-day event, spearheaded by the Training Department, brought together representatives from various HEIs to discuss advancements and collaborations in enhancing educational initiatives and improving technical education and skills development aligned with higher education programs.
The program kicked off with Mr. Mario M. Dela Cerna, Sr. TESD Specialist and Training Department Head, who welcomed the guests and HEI partners. In his opening remarks, Mr. Dela Cerna emphasized the importance of collaboration between TESDA and HEIs in promoting skills development that meets industry demands. He also provided an informative presentation on the TESDA RTC-KPVTC’s nine (9) diploma programs, highlighting the center’s commitment to offering high-quality technical and vocational education to prepare students for the workforce.
In support to the Training Center’s initiative and representing RD Ashary A. Banto, ARD Richard M. Amparo graced the event. He thanked the HEI partners who took the time to collaborate with TESDA RTC-KPVTC, Davao and extended his hopes of further partnerhsips and discussions with TESDA.
The event continued with a presentation by Ms. Kristi Donna N. Paredes, Sr. TESD Specialist from the Regional Operations Division. Ms. Paredes outlined the TESDA Best 8-Point Agenda of Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez, focusing on the strategic goals and initiatives aimed at enhancing technical education and training nationwide. She also provided an overview of the Philippine Credit Transfer Systemand its policies in relation to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and TESDA.
In the closing session, Engr. Constantino B. Panes, Jr., Ed.D., delivered an inspiring message on the significance of strengthening partnerships between TESDA and HEIs to improve the country’s workforce readiness. He emphasized the role of institutions like TESDA RTC-KPVTC in bridging the gap between education and industry requirements, ensuring that Filipino graduates are well-equipped to succeed in a competitive global economy.
The consultation served as a platform for HEIs to share insights, best practices, and explore opportunities for strengthening partnerships with TESDA and vice versa. Participants engaged in productive discussions on curriculum development, industry-aligned training, and initiatives to better equip students for the workforce.
The event highlights TESDA’s commitment to advancing technical education and vocational training, as well as reinforcing the vital role of HEI collaborations in the development of skilled TVET professionals for the Philippine workforce.
TESDA RTC-KPVTC Memorandum No. 895 s. 2024 marks the Training Center’s initiative to hold the HEI Consultation 2024. This annual event, organized by RTC-KPVTC, Davao, aims to engage HEI partners in meaningful conversations that strengthen the bond of cooperation and partnership between TESDA and HEIs. Key topics during the consultation included a review and comparison of curricula, the credit transfer system, updates on CHED and TESDA policies, identification of upskilling needs, industry sector developments, and internal reviews of content curriculum and VMG (Vision, Mission, and Goals) per qualification. Additionally, the forum addressed the repackaging of diploma curricula in line with the new CMO (Commission on Higher Education Memorandum Order) guidelines, as well as the inclusion of new competencies and other relevant matters.
Photo Courtesy: Mr. Jay Mark B. Nuevo, SMAC Managing Editor
