Advancing gender-based TVET programs in the Philippines: Challenges and strategies

Summary

This presentation focuses on the advancement of gender-based Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs in the Philippines. It explores the challenges women face, such as low participation in STEM fields and gender biases in the workforce. The presentation highlights best practices, including TESDA’s online programs and gender-inclusive curriculum. It also discusses the importance of addressing gender inequalities through curriculum reforms, public-private partnerships, and targeted transition programs for female graduates. The aim is to empower women, promote equal opportunities, and improve female labor force participation for a more inclusive and competitive future.

Takeaways

• 😀 TESDA, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, plays a key role in advancing gender-based TET programs in the Philippines.
• 😀 There is a significant gender gap in labor force participation, with the Philippines having one of the highest gender gaps in Southeast Asia, according to World Bank data.
• 😀 Gender equality and women's empowerment are fundamental in achieving the UN's SDGs, particularly in technical education and vocational training.
• 😀 TESDA's Online Program offers free, accessible online courses for both male and female learners, enabling flexible learning for all Filipinos.
• 😀 The TESDA Women's Center provides free competency-based training for women and is internationally recognized for promoting gender equality.
• 😀 The University also promotes TET through industrial technology degrees and evening vocational courses, with a focus on empowering women to enter non-traditional sectors.
• 😀 Initiatives like the World Youth Skills Day help inspire high school graduates, especially women, to consider TET programs and career opportunities in male-dominated industries.
• 😀 Providing gender-based TET programs enhances women's economic empowerment, improves their well-being, and contributes to their participation in the labor market.
• 😀 Despite increasing female enrollment in TET programs, challenges remain in ensuring equal employment opportunities for women, especially in non-traditional fields.
• 😀 The Philippine government has recognized the importance of inclusive and competitive TET programs and is committed to reducing gender biases in education and employment.
• 😀 TESDA's Gender Action Plan aims to support women's economic empowerment, increase their involvement in decision-making, and reduce time poverty through targeted initiatives.

Q & A

What is the focus of the presentation?

The presentation focuses on advancing gender-based TIVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) programs in the Philippines, highlighting challenges and strategies to address gender disparities in education and employment.

What is the role of UNESCO in promoting gender equality in TIVET?

UNESCO is committed to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in the field of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TIVET), recognizing the gender disparities that often exist in access to and participation in TIVET programs.

What data from the World Bank highlights gender gaps in the Philippines?

The World Bank data shows that in 2019, the Philippines had the lowest female labor force participation among Southeast Asian countries, trailing behind nations like China, Indonesia, Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

What is TESDA's role in advancing gender equality in TIVET?

TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority) is tasked with managing and supervising TIVET in the Philippines, including promoting gender inclusion by offering free online courses accessible to both women and men and encouraging women to enter male-dominated fields.

What are some of the key programs TESDA offers to support gender equality?

TESDA offers several programs like the TESDA Online Program (TOP), which provides free online courses, and the TESDA Women's Center, which offers competency-based training for women in various fields. These programs aim to empower women by equipping them with essential skills for employment.

What challenges do women face in participating in STEM-related TIVET programs?

Women often face barriers such as social expectations, lack of encouragement, and gender stereotypes, which discourage them from enrolling in STEM-related TIVET programs. As a result, female participation in these fields remains low.

How does the University featured in the presentation promote gender inclusion?

The University promotes gender inclusion by offering industrial technology degrees, evening vocational courses for women, and skills training programs, including free summer courses to help both male and female students enhance their employability.

Why is it important to deliver gender-based TIVET programs?

Gender-based TIVET programs are essential to improve the quality of life, promote health, increase access to paid employment, and foster social and political participation, ultimately leading to women's economic empowerment and a better quality of life for their families.

What are the main issues with gender equality in TIVET curricula?

The main issues include a lack of gender-sensitive curricula, the underrepresentation of women in non-traditional fields, and societal expectations that limit the options available to young women. These challenges require a more inclusive and targeted approach to curriculum design.

What actions are necessary to address gender equality in TIVET programs in the Philippines?

To address gender equality, the Philippines needs to develop gender-sensitive curricula, encourage female participation in non-traditional fields, create public-private partnerships, and offer programs that reduce discrimination and improve women's transition from school to the labor market.