In an innovative move aimed at strengthening the prospects of senior high school graduates in the MIMAROPA region, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has officially partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing activity. This pivotal collaboration was conducted during the Regional Kick Off Program on Senior High School Graduates Assessment and Certification held last April 29, 2024 through a hybrid activity.
The MOA signing ceremony, marked by enthusiasm and commitment, signifies a concerted effort by both TESDA MIMAROPA, represented by its Regional Director, Angelina M. Carreon, and DepEd MIMAROPA, represented by its Regional Director, Nicolas T. Capulong, to provide free assessment opportunities for senior high school graduates in the region.
The MOA Signing Activity was witnessed by attending Assistant Schools Division Superintendents of Oriental Mindoro, Calapan City, Palawan, and Puerto Princesa City, Principals, Administrative Officers, teachers, twenty (20) Senior High School graduates who were candidates for assessment from DepEd and Provincial Directors, TESDA Personnel, assessment center managers, owners, assessors from TESDA, and other Key Officials and stakeholders joining via Zoom platform and who were convened in common areas in the provinces of Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Palawan and Romblon, as the Oriental Mindoro province joined the physical conduct. Through this partnership, graduates will have access to assessment and certification services, facilitating their seamless transition into the workforce or higher education.
During the event, officials from TESDA MIMAROPA and DepEd MIMAROPA expressed their shared vision of empowering the youth by equipping them with relevant skills and qualifications. The collaboration underscores the importance of bridging the gap between education and employment, ensuring that graduates are adequately prepared to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving job market.
Acting Executive Director Janet M. Abasolo of TESDA Certification Office attended the said event and gave her inspirational message of support for the endeavor via virtual means.
Key stakeholders, including educators, industry representatives, and community leaders, lauded the initiative for its potential to transform the lives of countless young individuals in the MIMAROPA region. By offering free assessment services, TESDA and DepEd are not only enhancing the employability of graduates but also fostering a culture of lifelong learning and skill development.
The ceremonial launching of the partnership between TESDA MIMAROPA and DepEd MIMAROPA was witnessed by both in- person and virtual participants , utilizing a new technology of fingerprint scanning for all key officials of TESDA and DepEd at various assessment venues.
As the partnership takes shape, both agencies are poised to implement a series of activities and initiatives aimed at maximizing the impact of the assessment and certification program. This includes outreach efforts to raise awareness among students, parents, and educators, as well as the establishment of assessment centers strategically located across the region.
The collaborative spirit demonstrated through this MOA signing activity exemplifies the government’s commitment to harnessing the potential of the youth and driving inclusive growth and development in MIMAROPA. With TESDA and DepEd joining forces, senior high school graduates can look forward to a brighter future filled with opportunities for personal and professional advancement.
As the program unfolds, it is expected to serve as a model for similar partnerships across the country, underscoring the transformative power of collaboration in building a skilled and resilient workforce for the nation’s progress and prosperity.