CSU HOLDS 2025 INTERNATIONAL TVET CONFERENCE; WELCOMES DELEGATES ACROSS 14 COUNTRIES

Cagayan State University (CSU) officially opened the 2025 International Conference on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) at the Claude Andrews Convention Center today, October 30.

With the theme “Global Landscape: Aligning TVET and Industry for Sustainable Development,” the two-day event gathered delegates from 14 countries, including the Philippines, and 44 participants from various institutions across the country.

In her welcome address, Andrews Campus CEO Atty. Carla Marie Sumigad recognized the conference as a vital platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and building partnerships that go beyond borders, adding that collective vision and collaboration are essential to aligning education with industry needs.

“This conference provides a platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and fostering partnerships that transcend borders,” she said.

In addition, Engr. Roger Rumpon, CEO of CSU-Carig Campus, affirmed the university’s commitment to forge inclusive partnerships toward the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He also urged participants to work collectively in developing TVET curricula that respond to global workforce demands.

“Let us explore ways to strengthen the vital alliance that reinforces the critical education-to-employment transition and to craft and facilitate a harmonized global credential recognition,” he stressed.

Moreover, CSU Officer-in-Charge President Dr. Arthur Ibañez underscored the vision behind the international conference, saying it was founded on the belief that education rooted in skills, inclusivity, and innovation can uplift lives and build resilient communities.

He stressed that academic institutions must continuously modernize their programs and align them with emerging technologies to make learning more experiential and industry-driven.

“Here at CSU, our own TVET programs embody the same spirit across our campuses. We offer skills-based programs in partnership with TESDA Region II. These programs open doors to employment and empower communities in the region,” he added.

Over the next two days, Dr. Ibañez shared, the conference will focus on four key themes that define the future of technical and vocational education and training.

“This is part of our continuing pursuit of academic excellence, global engagement, and social responsibility. Through partnerships like this, we strengthen our commitment to quality assurance, innovation, and lifelong learning,” Dr. Ibañez highlighted.

Delivering his keynote address, Professor Dr. Suresh Kumar Dhameja, Director General of the Colombo Plan Staff College, highlighted the growing global relevance of TVET. He observed that while automation and artificial intelligence (AI) continue to reshape industries, skilled professionals remain indispensable.

“AI may replace the technicians, but AI cannot replace skilled people,” Dr. Dhameja said, noting that in many parts of the world, TVET graduates are already earning more than traditional degree holders, a trend expected to accelerate in the years ahead.

He also emphasized the shift toward hybrid and learner-centered education, which empowers students to take ownership of their learning even beyond formal schooling.

“We need to move from a teacher-led to a learner-led orientation, which is vital for the students of the future,” he explained.

Dr. Dhameja further highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between academia and industry to produce graduates ready to meet the evolving demands of automation, AI, and the green economy.

“TVET plays a critical role in developing a workforce capable of supporting the green economy, turning environmental responsibility into economic opportunity,” he added.

The two-day conference brings together international experts, educators, and policymakers in the TVET sector to exchange best practices and address emerging challenges in the field.

With international cooperation now underway, the event is expected to generate actionable outcomes, including joint research projects, student and faculty exchanges, and resource-sharing initiatives, all aimed at enhancing TVET effectiveness in the Philippines and beyond. (By Evhan Cariaga)