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Empowering the Future: How a Skills Competition Is Boosting Tech-Voc Education in Maguindanao

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Igniting a Passion for Technical-Vocational Education

A four-day skills competition, spearheaded by the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE) in Maguindanao, has successfully sparked a renewed interest in technical-vocational (tech-voc) education among local youth. The event, held from August 5-8 at the Illana Bay Integrated Computer College, brought together participants from 12 technical-vocational institutions (TVIs) to showcase their talents in a variety of fields, including cooking, electrical installation, carpentry, and information network cabling. The competition’s theme, “Empowering the Future: Advancing Skills for Tomorrow,” highlighted its mission to promote tech-voc as a direct and effective pathway to a career.

Bridging the Gap Between Perception and Reality

According to MBHTE-TESD Provincial Director Salekh Mangelen, the competition directly addresses a common challenge in the region: a low appreciation for tech-voc careers among young people who often prefer what are perceived as more prestigious white-collar jobs. Mangelen emphasized that not all students have the means to pursue a four-year university program, and tech-voc offers a wealth of employment opportunities. He expressed hope that events like this will help shift perceptions and inspire more young people to consider these valuable career paths.

A Participant’s Perspective: The Value of Hands-On Learning

The competition’s impact was evident in the testimonials of the participants. Bai Shahara Lumanggal, a competitor, shared that the experience significantly improved her skills and broadened her perspective on technical-vocational training. In a translated statement, she said that her skills were greatly enhanced and that one cannot simply dismiss tech-voc, as it provides many great experiences. She also expressed her gratitude to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) for creating such a valuable project. Her words underscore the hands-on, practical benefits of tech-voc training and the positive influence of the competition on the students involved.

Rewarding Excellence and Fostering Growth

The skills competition not only served as a platform for showcasing talent but also provided tangible rewards for the top performers. Champions in all categories were awarded cash prizes of P15,000, while the first, second, and third runners-up received P10,000, P5,000, and P3,000, respectively. These prizes not only celebrate the participants’ achievements but also serve as a strong incentive for others to pursue tech-voc training. The competition also functioned as a crucial qualifying round for a larger regional skills competition scheduled for October, where the winners will have the opportunity to represent Maguindanao on a more prominent stage.

Supporting a Broader Educational Mission

This skills competition is a key part of the MBHTE’s wider educational policy, which is aligned with the Bangsamoro Government’s commitment to providing quality, holistic education to all its citizens. The “no Bangsamoro is left behind” policy aims to ensure that every young person in the region has access to educational and career opportunities. By focusing on practical, in-demand skills through events like this competition, the MBHTE is actively working to build a more skilled workforce and empower the youth of Maguindanao to secure a brighter and more prosperous future.

Read More: Devolution of Tech-Voc Programs to Boost Grassroots Skills

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