The Department of Education (DepEd) and the Private Sector Council (PSAC) Jobs Committee signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on the enhanced work immersion program for senior high school students on Thursday, at the Malacañang Palace.
Both DepEd and PSAC will pilot the immersion program through the Private Sector Jobs and Skills Corporation (PCORP). The sector’s initiative aims to achieve the key elements of the student’s job application process and opportunities nationwide.
Its aim to mesh theoretical education and practical industry experience would attract potential employers for students. The agreement also includes elements on enhanced work immersion experience for students, curriculum alignment, training programs for teachers, and job fairs and matching opportunities nationwide.
The first responders who opened their doors to the enhanced work immersion program for senior high schools are:
- Semiconductors and Electronics Industries in the Philippines (SEIPI)
- IT Business Processing Association of the Philippines (IBPAP)
- Philippine Constructors Association (PCA)
- Confederation of Wearables Exporters of the Philippines (CONWEP)
- Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)
- Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP)
- iPeople through the National Teachers College (NTC)
- SM Group
- Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (Go Negosyo)
Furthermore, DepEd said that 10 schools from north to south, including one specializing in the Alternative Learning System (ALS), are set to participate in the pilot program. Included schools will focus on sectors known for their high demand for workers and job listings such as; tourism and hospitality, manufacturing, agriculture and entrepreneurship.
“This MOA gives our students the opportunity to gain hands-on work experience while still studying. In that way, it follows the President’s marching orders to us to do everything we can to improve the quality of our education and boost the chances of our graduates at landing better earning opportunities,” DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara said.
The pilot program is set to begin in the 2024-2025 school year. As a preparation, DepEd and PSAC have been conducting workshops and consultations in coordination with school heads and industry partners.
“This partnership marks a significant milestone in our efforts to prepare the next generation for the workforce. By collaborating with DepEd and industry leaders, we can ensure that our students are job-ready and equipped with the skills needed in today’s competitive job market,” PSAC Committee Lead, Joey Concepcion stated.
