TESDA MiMaRoPa Benchmarks Singapore’s TVET Excellence at ITE

SINGAPORE – A delegation of 11 Administrators from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) MiMaRoPa Region, led by Regional Director Angelina M. Carreon, CESO III, is undertaking a two-day study visit to Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education (ITE) from June 17 to 18, 2025. The visit aims to draw valuable insights from Singapore’s globally recognized Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system to enhance the Philippines’ own vocational education landscape. Endorsed by TESDA Director General Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez, the initiative directly supports TESDA’s transformative 8-Point Agenda. It advances Agenda 2: Behavior and Mindset Change by exposing TESDA leaders to a world-class model of vocational education, fostering a more innovative, adaptive, and globally attuned approach to TVET. The visit also contributes significantly to Agenda 7: Global Competitiveness and Good Housekeeping by identifying best practices in curriculum development, industry collaboration, and operational efficiency—ultimately aiming to equip Filipino technical workers with skills that meet international standards and promote effective resource management. On June 17, the delegation received a warm welcome and began with an overview of Singapore’s TVET system, followed by an in-depth presentation on ITE’s operations. A central theme was ITE’s educational philosophy of “Hands On, Minds On, Hearts On,” embodied through “Authentic Learning Simulating Workplaces.” These include state-of-the-art training facilities and simulation centers, supplemented by six-month internships that offer students vital real-world experience. The afternoon session explored the emerging role of Generative AI in TVET. Singapore’s impressive AI adoption rates—90% in industry, 75% in the public sector, and 65% in education—were highlighted, alongside the country’s 3rd place global ranking in AI Readiness. These figures reflect a high level of AI awareness among youth and the critical integration of advanced technologies in technical training. Throughout the visit, discussions emphasized ITE’s strong Active Engagement with Industry and Employers. This is realized through Academic Advisory Committees with industry experts, over 5,000 employer co-training partners for internships, more than 1,000 companies involved in Work-Study Diplomas, and around 200 partnerships for program development and technology updates. On June 18, the morning session centered on Quality TVET Pedagogic Development, underscoring ITE’s commitment to delivering industry-relevant, future-ready skills. This is achieved through continuous refinement of teaching strategies, incorporation of cutting-edge technologies, and curriculum alignment with evolving industry needs—ensuring graduates are both skilled and globally competitive. In the afternoon, the delegation embarked on a Learning Journey to ITE College East, gaining firsthand exposure to how ITE’s core educational principles are implemented across its three campuses—Central, East, and West—each with distinct areas of specialization. The TESDA MiMaRoPa delegation returns to the Philippines equipped with transformative knowledge and best practices aimed at strengthening the quality, innovation, and global competitiveness of the country’s technical-vocational education and training system.

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