The Philippine Senate is set to examine the collaborative efforts of the Department of Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in executing this ambitious program. With a significant budget of P438.16 million allocated in the 2024 General Appropriations Act for the TESDA Regulatory Program, the goal is to evaluate 420,900 Grade 12 TVL graduates for National Certification. Additionally, P50 million has been earmarked for the Department of Education's Teacher Quality and Development Program, focusing on the training and certification of senior high school teachers in the TVL track through TESDA. The overarching objective is clear: to ensure that TVL learners not only receive education but are also officially skilled and ready for employment.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has submitted Senate Resolution No. 935, calling for a thorough investigation into the readiness of the Philippines' educational bodies to implement a pioneering initiative: the Free Senior High School Assessment and Certification Support Program for technical-vocational-livelihood (TVL) graduates. The primary objective is to improve employment opportunities for TVL graduates, commencing in 2024.
Senator Gatchalian, who chairs the committee on basic education, emphasizes that Senate Resolution No. 935 goes beyond assessment; it aims to create opportunities for young Filipinos by enhancing their employability. The program addresses the existing challenge of low certification rates among TVL graduates, acknowledging a crucial gap in the education-to-employment transition. By offering free certification, the government aims to bridge this gap, making TVL learners more appealing to employers and better prepared for a competitive job market. This resolution reflects a commitment to improving the quality and relevance of technical and vocational education in the Philippines.
While the intentions of Senate Resolution No. 935 are commendable, there are challenges ahead. The successful implementation of this program requires thorough planning, effective training, and seamless coordination of resources by both the Department of Education and TESDA. Additionally, the program's success hinges on the agencies' ability to assess and certify a large number of TVL graduates within a relatively short period. Nevertheless, the potential benefits for TVL graduates and the broader Philippine workforce are substantial. By enhancing the status and quality of technical-vocational education, this program not only improves individual job prospects but also contributes to the country's economic development.
