CAMIGUIN (PIA) — To equip technical-vocational graduates with essential tools for employment, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Camiguin distributed approximately 20 toolkits to graduates of the Driving NC II program at the Camiguin School of Arts and Trades (CPSC), January 30.
The initiative is part of the 2023 Special Training for Employment Program (STEP Scholarship), which aims to provide practical skills and employment opportunities to scholars.
“This marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to empower individuals and provide you with the tools you need to succeed in these chosen skills. Through this program, TESDA has offered invaluable opportunities to those eager to learn, grow, and make meaningful contributions to their communities,” said TESDA Camiguin Provincial Director Mohaisen Manalao.
He added that the starter toolkits being distributed represent more than just materials. They symbolize the beginning of a brighter future.
“Each toolkit is a gift to include new skills, new opportunities, and a chance for individuals to step confidently into the workforce. These toolkits are carefully selected to ensure that our STEP Scholars are well-equipped to pursue their training and employment goals in the field of automotive and many others,” Manalao said.
The beneficiaries of the program expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to develop their driving skills through quality instruction and hands-on training. Reinalt Campos, one of the beneficiaries, said, “At first, sa pagsugod gyud namo diri sa TESDA, dili gyud mi kabalo mu-drive. Pero ing-ani ka nindot bitaw sa feeling nga naa ta’y mga nindot nga instructors nga matudluan gyud ta og sakto, makabalo gyud ta dili ta mu-graduate nga dili ta kabalo mudrayb. Makadrayb gyud tang tanan.”
(At first, when we started here at TESDA, we really didn’t know how to drive. But it feels really great that we have excellent instructors who teach us properly, ensuring that we truly learn. We won’t graduate without knowing how to drive—we will all be able to drive.)
Another beneficiary, Lourence Joy Malolot, highlighted the challenges faced, especially by female trainees, saying, “It was challenging, especially sa amoa mga babae kay may man sila mga lalaki nga driver naman sila og motor pero kami lugar nga wala gyud, challenging siya sa amoa pero it was a big help for us the way mag-teach among instructor, seryoso siya, straight siya.”
(It was challenging, especially for us women, because the men already knew how to drive motorcycles, but we had no experience at all. It was really challenging for us, but it was a big help the way our instructor taught us—he was serious and straightforward.)
Manalao said the event highlights TESDA’s commitment to helping communities through vocational education and support programs. By providing tools and training, TESDA ensures scholars are prepared for a successful career.
The distribution event was graced by Vocational School Administrator Karol Sanggomay P. Ranalan. Representing Manalao were Teddy B. Veloso and Erna S. Amores. (RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)
