Tech-voc to help sustain supply of skilled workers

CEBU, Philippines – Technical-vocational education providers have a role to play in the economy particularly in the sustainability of the supply of high-quality, skilled overseas Filipino workers (OFW).

Bernard Restificar, president and CEO of Cebu-based tech-voc firm Center for Healthcare Professions (CHP), said last week that the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) and training providers which consistently advocate for better training should help equip and upgrade the skills of workers especially those who want to work abroad.

"The role of the tech-voc in the Philippines is very essential in the economic growth," he said.

Restificar noted that OFWs have been sending back billions of dollars to the Philippines, which in turn could benefit its economy through spending.

He said, for instance, his company, accredited by Tesda, has produced thousands of OFWs over the years who are now working in Canada, USA, Europe, Middle East and in most Asian countries.

The Philippines, known for its quality skilled workers, has emerged in recent years as a leading manpower source of employers from around the world.

As a result, the remittance or the money sent back by OFWs to the county has become one of the main economic drivers.

According to a survey it released in April this year, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said the number of OFWs last year increased to 2.32 million, up 1.5% compared to 2013. This showed that more Filipinos were looking for more opportunities in overseas markets, bringing with them their talents and skills.

Moreover, tech-voc skills needed abroad include caregiving, housekeeping, practical nursing, welding and health care services, among others.

Locally, according to Restificar, the health care and tourism sectors are two of the top key employment generators, citing a Tesda report. Cebu, he said, offers many of the courses for skills needed in those sectors.

On K to 12

On another matter, the chief executive earlier said that tech-voc trainers can also be part of the implementation of the K to 12 system which adds a two-year senior high school in basic education. The senior high school specifically puts the spotlight on the technical and vocational track of the education system which will start implementation next school year.

Under the K to 12 educational reform, senior high school students can choose one of the three tracks: the academic track, arts and sports track and the tech-voc track. The latter is reportedly to be the most in-demand based on projections.

This is why, Restificar believes, tech-voc companies both private and public can take part in providing courses to future senior high learners.

The tech-voc track is designed to equip students with the right skills that will prepare them to enter the labor market. Tech-voc education is specifically aimed at those students who have no plan to proceed college education.