President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has recently taken a significant step towards improving the senior high school curriculum in the country. With the aim of equipping students and graduates with the necessary skills for employment, the President has directed the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) to collaborate closely with the Department of Education (DepEd) and harmonize the technical and vocational education training (TVET) curriculum with that of senior high school.
During a meeting with Tesda, the Department of Labor and Employment, the Commission on Higher Education, and DepEd at Malacañang, President Marcos expressed his vision for senior high school students to be prepared for the workforce. To achieve this, the Tesda Deputy Director General, Rosanna Urdaneta, explained that they have thoroughly examined the DepEd curriculum and worked together to integrate skills development into the existing curriculum.
Urdaneta emphasized the importance of contextualizing the subjects of the DepEd curriculum to ensure their relevance and applicability. By incorporating technical and vocational training, the curriculum can better align with the demands of the job market. This collaborative effort between Tesda and DepEd aims to bridge the gap between education and employment, providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen fields.
The proposal presented to President Marcos was based on a report by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, which highlighted the potential of senior high school graduates with employable skills to meet the demand for skilled workers. Recognizing this opportunity, the President has taken decisive action to enhance the curriculum and empower students with practical skills that can lead to gainful employment.
To ensure the effectiveness of the integration process, a pilot testing will be conducted in selected schools across the country. This approach allows for the evaluation and refinement of the curriculum, taking into account the diverse needs and circumstances of different regions. By implementing this pilot program, the government can gather valuable insights and make necessary adjustments before scaling up the initiative nationwide.
It is important to note that the enhancement of the senior high school curriculum does not entail any changes to the K to 12 curriculum itself. According to Tesda Director General, Secretary Suharto Mangudadatu, the curriculum will remain the same. However, there will be a greater emphasis on prioritizing certain lessons and programs that align with the skills required in the job market. This targeted approach ensures that students receive a well-rounded education while also focusing on the practical skills that will enhance their employability.
President Marcos’s directive to improve the senior high school curriculum with technical and vocational training demonstrates a commitment to equipping the youth with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. By integrating skills development into the curriculum, the government is fostering a more holistic and practical approach to education. This initiative not only benefits the students but also addresses the growing demand for skilled workers in various industries.
The collaboration between Tesda and DepEd in harmonizing the TVET curriculum with senior high school curriculum exemplifies the government’s dedication to providing quality education that prepares students for the realities of the job market. Through this initiative, students will have the opportunity to acquire valuable skills and knowledge, empowering them to thrive in their chosen careers. As the pilot testing commences and the curriculum evolves, the government remains committed to refining and expanding this program to benefit students across the country.
Source: The Manila Times