STA. BARBARA, Pangasinan (PIA) — The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is encouraging Senior High School (SHS) students to take the National Certificate (NC) examination seriously, underscoring its importance in enhancing career readiness and securing future employment opportunities.
During the recent Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas held on Dec. 17 in San Fernando City, La Union, Crescencia Boac, acting provincial director of TESDA La Union, emphasized the critical role of NC assessments in preparing SHS students for future employment and industry integration.
“Our primary intervention for SHS students is to conduct National Competency Assessments and award NC to those who qualify,” Boac said.
The NC serves as official proof of a student’s skills and competencies, ensuring they are prepared for industry-based training and eventual immersion in relevant work environments.
Boac explained that while employment placement for SHS graduates is managed by the Department of Education (DepEd), TESDA supports students through supervised industry learning, including 40 hours of hands-on work immersion in actual job settings.
Improving employment outcomes
TESDA is also committed to monitoring the post-training employment status of its graduates.
“Every year, the agency conducts research to monitor the employment status of its graduates. As for now, we are waiting for the results of the 2023 employment study,” Boac said.
She added that TESDA also mandates Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) providers, especially those with scholarship allocations, to actively monitor and report graduates’ employment data.
SHS graduates’ pathway
In addition to NC certifications, TESDA offers a three-year diploma program under the Universal Access to Quality Technical Education initiative. This government-funded program enables SHS graduates to pursue further education and advanced training, enhancing their employability.
“TESDA has established job linkage offices to facilitate employment opportunities in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE),” Boac assured, emphasizing that the NC exam is not just a test but a step towards countless opportunities for SHS students, helping them achieve career success and develop their skills.
Laurice Soriano from Sta. Barbara town meanwhile shared her journey in successfully passing the NC II certifications for both Food and Beverage Services and Housekeeping in 2022 and 2023, respectively.
“I am grateful to have passed the NC II certifications for both Housekeeping and Food and Beverage Services. This achievement motivates me to continue learning and growing in my chosen field,” Soriano said, encouraging SHS and even college students to take the examination, emphasizing its importance in developing skills and ensuring competence after graduation.
With these initiatives, TESDA aims to equip every learner with the tools and certifications needed to thrive in the workforce, driving inclusive growth and employment opportunities across the nation.(CCMT/JCDR, PIA Pangasinan)
