Under the theme Localizing Dual Education and Training in Senior High School in Region 4-A, the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI), together with the Philippine Chamber’s Human Resources Foundation (PCCI HRDF), recognized the milestones of the K to 12 PLUS Project through an Appreciation Event for one hundred project stakeholders, including representatives from the Department of Education (DepEd), teachers, partner companies, and K to 12 PLUS graduates.
The German Ambassador, H.E. Reiffenstuel graced the event, underscoring Germany’s continued support to promote the highly effective concept of Dual Education and Training (DET) outside Germany.
Supporting the vision of the Department of Education (DepEd) to improve the employability of the Filipino youth, the K to 12 PLUS Project partners piloted elements of DET in the Technical-Vocational Livelihood track of Senior High Schools (Kto12) and dual training programs after school (PLUS element). Working with a Senior High Schools in San Pedro, Laguna, GPCCI supported more than 70 students to undergo an enhanced school curriculum and structured work immersion.
Dr. Martin Henkelmann, Executive Director of GPCCI, highlighted that in Germany, the DET systems attracts yearly more than 1.3 million young men and women. “In Germany, Dual Education and Training – the early exposure of learners to the world of work – is attributed with Germany’s low youth-unemployment rate and constant practical innovations.”, said Henkelmann.
Romelie Jane B. Baclas, a graduate from the GPCCI-supported Metalworking Technology track in San Pedro, was hired immediately after graduation. Today, she works as a machinist for a local company not only defying gender-stereotypes, but being an inspiration for other Senior High School students choosing their career path. “This immersion provided us with confidence and competence to work after graduation”, Baclas said.
Launched in September 2013, the K to 12 PLUS Project is an initiative of the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) to support the implementation of the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 (Republic Act 10533) in the Philippines. GPCCI is one of six German Development Cooperation partners supporting its implementation.