Study shows Filipino college studes not proficient in English

Graduating college students, particularly those taking up buisness/education courses must take note of a recent study that revealed their English language proficiency at only the level of basic working proficiency. This particular level of proficiency indicates that "the person hardly understands native English speakers, or speakers of english vis international meetings, or could they sustain fluency & accuracy, plus discuss topics of general interest using non-elaborate structures."

The study, conducted by HA Cervantes Knowledge Systems, Inc., the Philippine-based firm which administers the ‘Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) took sample measurements of graduating students for Year 2001-2002 from selected educational institutions in Metro Manila. TOEIC is a global standard of English proficiency measurement developed by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) located in Princeton, New Jersey, USA. It reveals how the English proficiency of the examinee stands against the international benchmark, specifically among business trade community.

Dr. Hermelo Cervantes, HACKSI chief executive consultant stressed that said study showed why many Filipinos fail to obtain foreign jobs that require passing English proficiency certification tests. "That is why no one knows how the English proficiency of Filipinos stands against the global standard, not until now," Dr. Cervantes said.

Free copies of the HACKSI study will be given to business schools/educational institutions, including private sector & government entities upon request, by contacting: 6337734; 6366964, and thru: HA Cervantes Knowledge Systems, Inc. 4th Flr. AB Sandoval Bldg., Oranbo Drive, corner Shaw Blvd., Pasig City.