TWO government agencies are intensifying efforts to elevate Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a career option for Senior High School students.

During the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization meeting, the Department of Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority highlighted common challenges faced by Southeast Asian countries in delivering quality TVET programs.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the need to raise the profile and prestige of TVET.

“Our regional landscape of TVET is changing. TVET continues to offer young people a viable pathway and a quick pipeline from education to employment,” Angara said in a message read by Undersecretary Gina Gonong.

Angara added: “Responsibilidad natin na tiyaking hindi mababalewala at mapapabayaan ang TVET, kundi dapat itong mapaunlad at maisulong katabi ng ating pormal na sistema ng edukasyon.”

The two-day program included plenary sessions, open forums, and workshops to engage stakeholders and policymakers, according to DepEd.

In a video message, TESDA Director General Jose Francisco Benitez underscored the importance of sustained regional efforts to enhance TVET quality and relevance.

“Changing these perceptions requires continuous emphasis on the relevance, quality, and impact of TVET on individual success and the broader economy, bilang bahagi ng SEAMEO’s education agenda flagship initiatives sa pagpapaunlad ng TVET,” said Benitez.