SM Supermalls affirmed its commitment to providing learning and upskilling opportunities to Filipinos during the 29th founding anniversary celebration of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) held at the SM Megamall Event Center last August 22.
TESDA has planned a series of events that emphasize the value of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in boosting the socio-economic standing of Filipinos, including an orientation on labor education for graduating students and employment coaching; skills demonstrations on cooking, basic life support and first aid for vehicular accidents, and smart farming; and a symposium on Gender and Development.
The celebration is also in accordance with Republic Act No. 7796 which declares every 25th of August as “National Technical-Vocational (Tech-Voc) Day,” which highlights job linking, TVET enrollment, and product displays and trade fairs from different regions across the country.
“TESDA remains at the forefront of modern and innovative technical vocational education and training. Let us serve with a heart, and continue to provide quality programs and projects that will uplift the lives of our kababayans. As symbolized in our new slogan, tunay ngang ‘Sa TESDA, Lingap ay Maaasahan’,” shared TESDA Secretary Suharto Mangudadatu in his anniversary message.
SM and TESDA’s holistic approach to education and employment has transformed lives and strengthened local communities in the Philippines. Among its collaborative work includes the expansion of the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) Program which helped empower farmers, and the SM Asensong Pinoy Program which opened livelihood opportunities by giving enterprise-based National Certificate (NC) II certification training.
“At SM, we recognize the profound impact of TESDA on our country. Your unwavering dedication has equipped individuals with the tools they need to excel in various fields, and this has helped bring forth a positive influence to different communities across the country,” said SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan in his message of support.