TESDA begins innovation hub to boost job-ready skills in NCR

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Tuesday officially kicked off the construction of an innovation center inside its complex in Taguig City in a bid to boost job-ready skills in Metro Manila.

In a statement, the agency said TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez led the groundbreaking of the Regional TVET Innovation Center – National Capital Region (RTIC-NCR) along with other officials.

The innovation hub is a facility designed to equip learners, workers, and jobseekers with competencies aligned with emerging industries.

Upon its completion by March 2027, the RTIC-NCR will provide accessible, high-quality training programs in fields such as automation, mechatronics, and smart technologies.

Benitez emphasized the need to strengthen training institutions and deepen industry partnerships through innovation-driven training systems in order to keep up with evolving job demand.

“Through the RTIC-NCR, we are expanding opportunities for Filipinos to access advanced skills training that leads to better employment, higher productivity, and inclusive growth. This innovation center reflects our commitment to future-proofing Filipino talent,” he said.

The facility will also be a central hub linking government agencies, industry partners, higher education institutions, and training providers towards collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation.

It will also support higher-level qualifications, including National Certificate (NC) Levels III, IV, and V, and diploma programs responsive to industry demands, the TESDA added.

The project is implemented under the Strategic Industry Partnership Program in TVET System (SIPTVETS) and is funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). — JMA, GMA News