TESDA opens innovation center in Isabela

March 17, 2023

In response to the challenges brought by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) continues to establish innovation centers nationwide.

Last March 10, Director General Danilo P. Cruz, together with Deputy Director General for TESD Operations Aniceto Bertiz III, led the inauguration ceremony of the Regional TVET Innovation Center (RTIC) at the Isabela School of Arts and Trades (ISAT) in Ilagan City, Isabela.

DG Cruz said that the ongoing establishment of RTICs nationwide is essential in providing skills training to the country’s workforce that will help them thrive in the ever-changing work environments of the 4IR.

“These innovation centers will hone the skills, knowledge, and attitude of our learners. Additionally, the innovation center will also provide an environment where the learners can innovate, discover their full potential and showcase their talents in their areas of specialization," Cruz added.

Last May 2022, TESDA conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for the RTIC which will serve as an innovation hub for TVET in Region II.

Meanwhile, Bertiz, who is also the TESDA spokesperson, shared that the RTIC is a venue for advanced facilities, and for developing skills training programs for TESDA trainees to experience and learn Industry 4.0 skills.

“The construction of innovation centers nationwide is aligned with TESDA’s overall strategic thrusts which are to achieve global competitiveness and workforce readiness and attain social equity for workforce inclusion and poverty reduction,” he said.

At present, there are three other TESDA innovation centers located in Cebu, Northern Samar, and Zamboanga Sibugay.

Meanwhile, DG Cruz also led the inauguration of the newly-constructed TESDA provincial office located at the City Civic Center in Barangay Alibagu, Ilagan City Isabela.

The TESDA Chief also spearheaded the ISAT Incubation Center. The incubation center is designed to provide ISAT trainees with the skills, resources, and support they need to start successful businesses and achieve economic self-sufficiency, particularly in the sectors of food and health and wellness.

DG Cruz and Bertiz were joined by Regional Director Archie A. Grande, TESDA Isabela Provincial Director Vilma Cabrera, and ISAT Superintendent Edwin Madarang.