Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) partnered with Biliran Province State University to host the World Café Opportunities on August 16 at the university student center.

The activity, attended by partner agencies, technical vocational graduates and alumni, beneficiaries, and BiPSU students, was held in celebration of the National Technical Vocational (Tech-Voc) Day.

In his message, Provincial Director Engr. Enrico C. Banario emphasized that the primary goal of the activity was to provide various opportunities, including employment, skills upgrading, training support, financial assistance, and consultancy services for interested beneficiaries. “This event is aimed at helping individuals enhance their skills and find better job opportunities,” Banario stated.

Opportunities for BiPSU students

Ma. Lourdes A. Ebina, Senior TESD Specialist of TESDA-Biliran PO, highlighted several opportunities available to BiPSU students, including participation in job fairs, basic and advanced skills training, technical assistance for proposed enterprise ventures, and free services such as massage, among others.

“One of our main target beneficiaries really are our students and employees from BiPSU,” Ebina said.

Additionally, BiPSU students attended an Orientation on the Requirements for Competency Assessment, which is designed to provide students with a clear understanding of the assessment process, including the necessary prerequisites, procedures, and standards.

“This is important for our students who are planning to get NC [National Certificate],” Ebina added.

BiPSU-TESDA partnership revival

Prior to the event, TESDA Regional Director Dan M. Navarro, along with PD Engr. Banario and Cabucgayan National School of Arts and Trades (CNSAT) Vocational School Administrator Shiela Marie D. Taon, paid a courtesy visit to University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr.

In their visit, RD Navarro pledged to work closely with BiPSU in order to revive the partnership between the two institutions, which was halted during the pandemic.

With the partnership, BiPSU will be assessed to be an accredited assessment center of TESDA and offer short vocational courses which are yet to be determined.

Dr. Cañezo expressed his enthusiasm for the potential reoffering of vocational courses at the university, emphasizing BiPSU’s commitment to responding to the needs of the local community and the industry.

“Maganda to for better employability,” Dr. Cañezo said. “I think with this partnership, we can really ensure that our students are equipped with skills that are in demand locally and globally.”

Meanwhile, CNSAT Vocational School Administrator Taon mentioned plans to revise their curriculum to better align with BiPSU’s offerings, noting that many CNSAT graduates continue their studies at BiPSU. In response, Dr. Cañezo revealed plans to invite TESDA to participate in the university’s curriculum review and revision process to ensure that it remains responsive to industry needs.

“We are keen on integrating industry feedback into our curriculum to better prepare our students for future employment,” Cañezo added.

The possible re-collaboration between BiPSU and TESDA aims to strengthen technical and vocational education and provide students with enhanced career opportunities.

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