TESDA-Aboitiz scholarship gains The TESDA-Aboitiz Scholarship program has achieved significant success, with TESDA-NCR Regional Director Conrado Bares reporting that out of the 100 trainees who enrolled in the program in 2018, 93 have graduated and secured NC-II certification. Of the 93, 74 percent gained immediate employment. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Some 74 percent of technical-vocational students certificated by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Aboitiz Scholarship Program have successfully gained employment this year.

TESDA-NCR Regional Director Conrado Bares reported that of the 100 trainees who enrolled in the program in 2018, 93 have graduated and secured NC-II certification. Of the 93, 74 percent gained immediate employment.

Of the offered courses, TESDA reported a 100 percent employment rate for bartending, food and beverage services, and plumbing while 50 percent and 40 percent respectively for housekeeping and food processing.

“I wish that we will be able to sustain the partnership so that we will be able to reach more trainees, especially the least, the less, and the lost,” he said during the turnover of P1 million check from the Aboitiz Foundation in Taguig City last December for the sustained implementation of the scholarship program.

The program commenced in 2016 where a memorandum of agreement was signed for a grant of P1 million to help the marginalized trainees who were enrolled in various courses at the TESDA Women’s Center.

The grant is used to cover costs of trainees’ medical examination, assessment fees accident insurance, ID, uniform, personal protective equipment and training supplies and materials.

Aboitiz Foundation first vice president and chief operating officer Maribeth Marasigan said the gift of education is probably the best gift that Aboitiz can give this Christmas. “With the help of TESDA and the trust that you have been giving us, these scholars are given the chance to shine their brightest and help drive change for a better world,” she stressed.

Marasigan also reminded the scholars to stay focused and strong, yet humble and generous: “There will be tough times… sometimes you would want to give up. But just remember that many people are cheering for you and would really work their hardest to help you.”

The Groupwide Aboitiz Technical-Vocational program offers an alternative solution to help high school students who do not have the means to pursue a college education. Since 2005, Aboitiz Foundation has assisted 2,787 trainees under this program with 2,697 graduates.