CSU CONDUCTS FIRST REGIONAL TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING SUMMIT

Tuguegarao City, Cagayan – Cagayan State University (CSU) conducted its inaugural Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Summit 2024 with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting today, November 21, 2024, at the CSU Andrews Gymnasium.

With the theme: “Empowering Global Competencies: Integrating 21st Century Skills in Technical and Vocational Education for Sustainable Futures in Agriculture, Fisheries, and Emerging Sectors,” the two-day summit aims to highlight advancements in TVET and its impact on local and global innovations.

In his opening address, OIC President Dr. Arthur G. Ibañez welcomed participants and highlighted the value of partnerships between CSU, government agencies, and industries in tackling regional development challenges. “The goal is to commit to concrete actions to affirm optimal participation and adherence to all the provisions of the PQF law, thereby enhancing our capacity to meet and exceed international standards,” he said.

In a keynote message, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director General Jose Francisco Benitez, commended CSU’s efforts in organizing the event, highlighting its crucial role in integrating 21st-century skills into technical-vocational education for sustainable futures in agriculture, fisheries, and emerging industries.

DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, Engr. Sancho Mabborang, TESDA Undersecretary Rosanna Urdaneta, and TESDA R02 Regional Director Toni June Tamayo likewise expressed their appreciation, emphasizing the importance of Tech-Voc education to the growth, development, and existence of industries, and the strategic TESDA Directions 2025 & Roadmap.

Distinguished speakers included DA Executive Director - Dr. Junel Soriano; CSU Carig CEO – Engr. Roger Rumpon; Bauertek Corporation General Manager - Dr. Richard Nixon Gomez; Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines President - Mr. Edmund Araga; Informatic Philippines, Inc. President & CEO - Mr. Leonardo Riingen; Global Asia Alliance Consultant Inc. President & CEO - Dr. Aniceto Bertiz; DepEd Regional Director - Dr. Benjamin Paragas; DICT Regional Director - Dr. Pinky Jimenez, and CSU Consultant - Dr. Florentina Dumlao, who shared their valuable insights during the simultaneous plenary sessions. The program will conclude tomorrow with a message of support from CSU's former President, Dr. Urdujah Alvarado, CESB Chair and Convenor.

The summit brought together 64 TESDA schools from Isabela (35), Nueva Vizcaya (10), Quirino (5), and Cagayan (14), along with TESDA offices in the region, and featured exhibits from CSU campuses, industry partners, and other sectors showcasing innovative products and technologies. The exhibit will remain open for public viewing until November 22, 2024.