Bridging the gap
AMISMATCH between the job skills that employers need and those that the workforce offers is growing in Western Visayas. The Regional Development Council’s (RDC) Regional Development Plan for 2023 – 2028 warns that if left unaddressed, this mismatch could stifle the region’s economic potential and leave many of its citizens behind in a rapidly evolving job market.
The crux of the problem lies in the widening gap between the current educational outputs and the demands of the labor market. This gap is exacerbated by the swift pace of digitization and technological advancements that render some skills obsolete while elevating the importance of others. The RDC highlights a particular concern in the services sector, which is a significant pillar of the region’s economy, accounting for 59 percent of its total economic output in 2021. Yet, the employment rate of technical and vocational training (TVET) graduates, a crucial talent pool for this sector, is falling short of expectations.
Despite the commendable certification rate of TVET graduates and the high graduation rate from the TVET Skills Training Program, these achievements have not translated into the expected employment outcomes. This discrepancy indicates a misalignment between the training provided and the skills in demand, pointing to a critical need for curriculum reassessment and adaptation to the contemporary needs of the labor market.
The RDC’s strategic frameworks to enhance employability through education and skills development are a step in the right direction. Investing in TVET human resources, pursuing higher education initiatives, fostering digitalization and innovation, and strengthening partnerships for skills development policies are commendable strategies. These efforts, however, must be accelerated and amplified to meet the urgent needs of the labor market.
Addressing the skills mismatch requires a multi- faceted approach. Employment bridging programs and career advancement support services must be intensified. Skills assessment and mapping mechanisms need enhancement to align educational outputs with market demands accurately. Furthermore, ensuring worker protection and safety through improved labor market governance is crucial for a resilient workforce.
Coordination among government institutions, the private sector, and educational providers is vital for establishing effective employment programs. These programs should not only target the youth but also the marginalized, disadvantaged, and vulnerable sectors, ensuring inclusivity and equitable access to opportunities.
The strength of Western Visayas’ economy lies in the skills and capabilities of its workforce. Prioritizing knowledge and skills enhancement programs to boost productivity is an economic imperative. It is about empowering individuals with the tools they need to succeed in a changing world, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of progress and prosperity.