How Bill Aims to Enhance Employability Skills in Senior High School Students 2024

Introduction

To bolster the Employability Skills and competitiveness of senior high school (SHS) graduates, Deputy Speaker Camille Villar of Las Piñas has introduced House Bill 9808. This measure aims to ensure that SHS students, upon completing the K to 12 basic education curriculum, possess the requisite knowledge, training, and skills to thrive in both the public and private sectors.

Enhancing Employability Skills Through Practical Training

The bill proposes a comprehensive approach that focuses on providing practical training to students. By incorporating real-world scenarios and hands-on experience into the curriculum, students can develop essential Employability Skills that are highly sought after by employers.

Bridging the Gap Between Education and Industry Needs

One of the key objectives of this bill is to bridge the gap between what students learn in the classroom and what the industry demands. By aligning educational content with industry needs, students can graduate with relevant Employability Skills that make them valuable assets in the workforce.

Equipping Graduates for Success

Villar underscores the alignment of the bill with the goals of the K to 12 program. It intends to equip SHS graduates with versatility for diverse pathways, be it higher education, middle-level skills development, employment, or entrepreneurship.

Collaboration for Curriculum Alignment

A pivotal aspect of the bill is the establishment of Batang Magaling National and Local Councils. These councils are envisioned as conduits for fostering collaboration and communication between educational institutions and industry partners. Their primary objective is to ensure that curricula and work immersion components remain attuned to market needs.

Fostering Innovation and Critical Thinking

In addition to enhancing technical Employability Skills, the bill also emphasizes the importance of fostering innovation and critical thinking among students. By encouraging creativity and problem-solving skills, students can adapt to new challenges and contribute fresh perspectives to their future workplaces.

Composition of the Councils

Comprising representatives from key stakeholders such as the Department of Education (DepEd), Technical Education and Employment Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), national industry partners, labor groups, and the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP), these councils are poised to drive comprehensive engagement.

Local-Level Implementation

At the grassroots level, the councils will engage local school boards, Public Employment Service Offices (PESO), TESDA provincial offices, industry partners, and local employee organizations. This decentralized approach ensures alignment with regional nuances and demands.

Driving Strategy with Data

The bill mandates periodic labor market demand studies, conducted every three years at the local level. These studies serve as foundational insights for refining the work immersion component of the SHS program and crafting the Batang Magaling roadmap. This roadmap aims to harmonize K to 12 curriculum tracks and strands with market demands.

Empowering Work Immersion Programs

To enhance practical exposure, educational institutions offering the SHS program must provide Work Immersion Programs (WIPs). These programs play a crucial role in developing students’ competencies, work ethics, and values, preparing them for further education or entry into the workforce.

Centralized Database for Streamlined Processes

To streamline employment-related processes, the DepEd and DOLE will develop and maintain a centralized nationwide database of skills information. This database serves as a comprehensive repository for matters about the employment of SHS graduates.

Crafting Strategies for Success

In line with minimizing barriers to employment, the bill tasks the DOLE and DepEd to research and develop strategies to promote affirmative hiring of SHS graduates.

Cultivating a Culture of Lifelong Learning

Moreover, the bill promotes a culture of lifelong learning among students. By instilling a growth mindset and a passion for continuous improvement, students are better equipped to stay competitive in a rapidly changing job market.

Ensuring Accountability and Continuous Improvement

A cornerstone of the proposal is the mandatory review of its implementation. Every two years, the DepEd, in collaboration with the councils, will assess the effectiveness of the law and submit a comprehensive report to Congress.

Conclusion: Employability Skills

Deputy Speaker Camille Villar’s proposed bill underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the readiness of SHS students for the workforce. By aligning education with industry needs, fostering collaboration, and promoting practical skill development, the Batang Magaling initiative holds the promise of creating a more competitive and employable workforce.

FAQs