TESDA launches rating system for techvoc schools

MANILA, Philippines - To generate more world class workers, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is now adopting a rating system for “techvoc” schools nationwide.

TESDA chief Joel Villanueva said the agency will start implementing the so-called “TVET star rating system.”

Under the system, TESDA will categorize technical vocational education and training (TVET) programs into good, better or best with corresponding stars. 

TESDA is working  with training institutions and other stakeholders to ensure that the country will have a more competitive workforce.

“The reasons are urgent in light of global challenges. Developing quality education policies, programs and structures is imperative,” he said.

TESDA initiated a forum last week to discuss with techvoc schools and other stakeholders the new system.

he TVET Programs Star Rating System is meant to recognize the accomplishments, innovations and improvements that technical vocational institutions have instituted beyond the minimum requirements set in the UTPRAS.

UTPRAS is the Unified TVET Program Registration and Accreditation System, a quality-assured process implemented by TESDA to ensure compliance of training institutions with TESDA’s standards.

Villanueva expressed hope that techvoc schools will adopt Quality Management Systems (QMS) so they could produce quality skilled graduates who can be assets to the workforce.

During the forum, the training institutions were oriented on the different QMS standards/awards they can adopt as they implement their programs.