10 February 2012
A passenger bus equipped with training seats and interconnected computers recently purred out to serve as mobile learning centers to far-flung communities in Metro Manila and nearby provinces in Region III and IV-A.
The Park and Train Mobile Training Program (MTP) is the latest initiative of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) launched on February10, 2012 during the TESDA Specialista Day in Taguig City.
President Benigno Aquino III and TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva led the event, which also unveiled the TESDA Specialista Technopreneurship Program (TSTP), small groups of skilled graduates who are organized and equipped with toolkits to provide services in repairs and troubleshooting needs of households and communities.
“The Mobile Training Plus (Park and Train) which we launched today is a novel program and part of TESDA’s technology-based community training program to make skills training more accessible to the public, especially those in remote areas,” Villanueva said.
Even as various technical-vocational institutions of TESDA are all over the country, Villanueva said there is still need to reach out to families who may not have the means to enroll in training schools.
“Having formal training of a specific course will enhance the graduate’s employment opportunities in companies or in micro and small enterprises within the community,” he added.
The passenger bus was transformed into state-of-the-art classrooms equipped with multi-media equipment, computers, tools, 16 training chairs and other supplies needed for training students on short courses.
It will also serve as assessment centers for graduates who want to undergo the competency assessment and be certified later on as TESDA Specialista.
On the side of the bus, two collapsible tents will be set up to serve as practical work area and assessment venue.
The bus will serve as computer laboratory, contextual learning area and training and learning resource areas for students.
Courses to be offered include Automotive Servicing NC1, Motorcycle and Small Engine Servicing NC II, Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II, Mechatronics Servicing NC II and Computer Hardware Servicing.
The facility will also be used to offer one of the core training programs, Community Disaster Management, which is designed to equip participants with necessary knowledge, skills and attitude in preparation for any eventful calamity or disaster. These are in the areas of performing basic life support, coordinating emergency resources, managing the scene of emergency and non-emergency patients and delivering pre-hospital patient care.
The facility may also offer modules on Building/House Repair and Maintenance Services, Beauty Care and Wellness Services, Appliance Repair Services, Automotive/Vehicle Maintenance Services and Computer Hardware Services.
The bus was a donation of the Genesis Group of Companies, which earlier partnered with TESDA in the training, assessment and certification of their bus drivers. The company operates the Genesis Transport Services Inc, Saulog Transit and Dagupan Bus Company. The company committed to donate two buses to TESDA.
Villanueva said the bus was initially intended as shuttle service of TESDA employees, but he said they saw its better use as mobile classroom.
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