TESDA pushes for more int’l collaborations to boost Ph TVET

April 21, 2025

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has conducted a series of international engagements in China, Germany, and Canada as part of its commitment to advancing technical vocational education and training (TVET) in the country.

Last March 22 to 29, TESDA Secretary Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez, together with Deputy Director General Felizardo R. Colambo, participated in the 2025 Philippine Nuclear Energy Mission to Canada, which also included key government agencies and industry stakeholders.

The mission aimed to explore opportunities within Canada's nuclear industry and to gain insights from Canada's extensive experience in nuclear technology.

“We should be ready with the human resources necessary to support nuclear power plant operations,” Secretary Kiko said, emphasizing the crucial role of the agency in providing skills training in emerging industries.

Further, from March 23 to 29, TESDA also participated in a benchmarking activity in China. The TESDA delegation led by Director El Cid H. Castillo visited the Quanzhou Vocational and Technical University, Yalong Intelligent Equipment Group, Zhejian Future Construction Center, and Zhejiang College of Education.

During the visit, TESDA engaged with Chinese counterparts on a range of key topics, including industry-led curriculum development, dual training systems, digital platforms for skills training, and national qualification frameworks.

Meanwhile, from March 25 to April 2, TESDA Deputy Director General Vidal D. Villanueva, together with Directors Jovencio M. Ferrer, Jr. and David B. Bungallon, participated in the Hannover Messe 2025, an annual technology fair in Hannover, Germany.

The visit included networking with industry leaders, attending seminars, and touring the training facilities of global automation company FESTO Inc. The insights gained in this endeavor will support TESDA’s preparations for the 14th WorldSkills ASEAN Competition in August 2025.

“As we continue to reposition TVET in the Philippines, our global partnerships are crucial in ensuring that our training programs remain relevant, responsive, and future-ready,” Secretary Kiko said.

Through these international initiatives, TESDA reaffirms its commitment to modernizing TVET and ensuring that Filipino workers are equipped with globally competitive skills. These engagements are in line with the agency’s mission to align TVET with evolving labor market needs and technological innovations.