By Xander Ledesma
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Negros Oriental has introduced new competency standards to address the growing demand for emerging job qualifications, enabling schools and technical-vocational institutions (TVIs) to align their curricula with evolving market needs.
TESDA-Negros Oriental Provincial Director Joel Villagracia announced on Tuesday that the agency, in collaboration with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), has developed competency standards for in-demand skills such as digital marketing, content creation, data analytics, and data management.
“These standards are designed to prepare individuals for industries that require modern and specialized skills. We aim to ensure that these qualifications are available for registration and training,” Villagracia said.
TESDA’s efforts in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector include offering online programs such as Visual Graphics Design NC III, Android mobile app development for beginners, and IBM Skill Build. Diploma courses now available include Software Engineering Technology, Digital Arts Technology, and Information Technology.
“These programs are currently at the Competency Standards Level IV and can be adapted into community-based curricula. Schools and TVIs can adopt these standards to create programs that respond to local and national job demands,” Villagracia explained.
Two institutions, Metro Dumaguete College and Silliman University through its TVI, are working to complete their requirements for TESDA registration to offer these new courses. Villagracia encouraged other schools to register and adopt the programs to address the growing demand for emerging skills.
TESDA’s Online Program (TOP) and Smart ICT courses provide additional resources for learners, aiming to enhance workforce readiness and competitiveness in rapidly changing industries. Villagracia emphasized that these initiatives are part of TESDA’s commitment to developing human resources that can adapt to new opportunities and economic shifts.
“The demand for emerging skills continues to grow, and these programs will play a vital role in equipping individuals with the knowledge and competencies they need to thrive in the modern workforce,” he added.