TACLOBAN CITY – House Committee on Higher and Technical Education Chairperson and EDCOM II Co-Chair Rep. Jude Acidre has called for reforms in the country’s post-secondary education system, saying it must adapt to the changing needs of students and the labor market.
Speaking during a joint meeting of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Acidre said existing education policies should reflect the growing number of learners moving between technical-vocational training, higher education, and employment.
He noted that more than 4,000 technical-vocational institutions now operate alongside colleges and universities, underscoring the need for policies that recognize the distinct roles of each institution rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.
Acidre said reforms should focus on creating a learner-centered system where students can move seamlessly from skills training to higher education and employment, helping develop a workforce that meets the country’s evolving economic needs.
The meeting brought together education officials, academic leaders, and development partners to discuss ways to strengthen governance, quality assurance, and learner progression under the Philippine Qualifications Framework.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
