TESDA urges Libya OFWs to leave, grab tech-voc training in PHL

TESDA mechanics-in-training in cooperation with ISUZU Philippines. Photo courtesy of www.tesda.gov.ph

MANILA — As the situation in conflict-stricken Libya remains volatile, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the said country are having a hard time returning back to the Philippines fearing that no available jobs and opportunities will be made accessible to them.

Some are reported to have been requested to stay by their employers to train their Libyan co-workers who would fill in their positions once they decide to depart from Libya.

Most industries like power plants and hospitals in Libya have further proven their need for skilled workers amid the ongoing strife in the country.

In relation to the demand for skilled workers, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) have been urging OFWs in Libya to leave and avail of the voluntary repatriation offered by our government.

“The apprehension of our overseas Filipino workers that are coming home is tantamount to losing their jobs is very real and understandable. But recent events have shown that the threat to safety and lives of Filipinos in Libya has become even greater,” TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva said.

To alleviate worries of affected OFWs, the TESDA has offered technical-vocational training to them that will upgrade their skills or introduce them to new expertise that would open them more dooors of opportunities not only in the Philippines but also in a new foreign country.

“It now becomes more and more urgent that Filipinos in Libya avail of voluntary repatriation as soon as possible. No job is worth one’s life,” Villanueva added.

In demand skills training courses are being offered by the agency such as construction, food and beverage, information and communication technology, automotive, metals and engineering, tourism, agriculture and fishery, and many others.

The free training program under the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) and the Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA) may be availed by the returning OFWs in any TESDA-accredited institutions in their respective provincial, district or regional offices.

Immediate employment ​after graduation is also being assisted by the TESDA through linking students to their prospective employers by way of organizing events.

TESDA graduates are being issued a National Certificate once he or she passes the competency assessment.

“Based on our data, six out of 10 graduates who availed of the scholarship (TWSP) got employed within six months to one year after training,” the TESDA Chief shared.

Meanwhile, OFWs who may opt to establish business or gain self-employment, TESDA has also been providing training on entrepreneurship to assist them in putting up their own small business.

“TESDA is here to assist the returning OFWs. There’s better life after their stint abroad,” Villanueva further stressed.