TESDA Kalinga eyes MOA to bridge training-to-job gap

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is seeking to formalize partnerships with government agencies, local government units (LGUs), educational institutions, and industry stakeholders through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) aimed at aligning technical-vocational education and training (TVET) with employment opportunities in Kalinga.

The proposal was presented by TESDA Kalinga Provincial Director Atty. Clifford E. Pascual during the Kapehan sa Kapitolyo on August 3 at the Kalinga Provincial Capitol in Bulanao, Tabuk City.

The initiative builds on TESDA's presentation during the July 6 Kapehan sa Kapitolyo, where the agency reported that Kalinga has a skills supply gap of 16,729 workers, based on the Area-Based and Demand-Driven (ABDD) Skills Mapping. During the latest briefing, TESDA presented additional data supporting the proposed agreement and underscored the need for stronger collaboration among stakeholders.

Carrying the theme "The Data Made the Case. The MOA Is the Mechanism," Pascual said the proposed agreement seeks to strengthen coordination among institutions responsible for workforce development, ensuring that TVET programs are aligned with the actual needs of industries and employers.

TESDA data showed that only 12.16 percent of Kalinga's Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) target has been achieved, making it the province's weakest training delivery modality despite the opportunities created under Republic Act No. 12063, or the Enterprise-Based Education and Training Framework Act.

The agency also reported that only seven out of 2,677 trainees enrolled under monitored programs have secured employment, highlighting the need to improve the transition from skills training to gainful work.

Meanwhile, the agriculture sector posted a skills gap of 5,524 workers, accounting for nearly one-third of the province's total workforce shortage. Despite the demand, only 56 trainees enrolled in agriculture-related TVET programs, indicating the need to encourage more individuals to pursue careers in one of Kalinga's priority industries.

Pascual emphasized that addressing the province's workforce challenges requires a shared commitment among TESDA, national government agencies, LGUs, schools, training institutions, and the private sector.

"Convening the council is our progress, and working with all of you is a legacy that we will leave behind," Pascual said.

He expressed confidence that the proposed partnership would help build a more responsive TVET system by equipping Kalinga residents with industry-relevant skills while supporting the province's long-term economic growth.

Once finalized, the proposed MOA will serve as a framework for closer collaboration in planning, implementing, and monitoring technical-vocational programs, with the goal of narrowing Kalinga's skills gap and increasing employment opportunities for TVET graduates.