Lifelong learning is an evolving concept, as various institutions start to adapt to the influences of the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR). 2 Perhaps, an old local word can fairly capture the concept of lifelong learning – Kruhay. It means “long live.” 3 “Long live” to the skills development programs that upskill the human capital in the Philippines, especially to that of TESDA which upskills the grassroot human capital. 4 TESDA can still beef up on strenghtening its alumni network as it try to address: “Skills Training for Drug Dependents; Skills Training for Entrepreneurs and Family Enterprises; Skills Training for Inmates and their Families; OFW’s Reintegration; Special Skills Program for the Indigenous People; Expanded Training Program for Women and PWDs, etc.” 5 Future partnerships of the TESDA Alumni Office with Department of Trade and Industry’s MSMEs Global Academy can be a great boost for the TESDA Alumni Network, especially in the intersection of agro-industrial lifelong learning programs. 6 Additionally, enabling laws for Agricultural Pension Fund may be strengthened by the agro-industrial upskilling projects of the said agencies. 7 Inter-agency partnerships can aid in the eventual internationalization of Philippine human capital, especially for adult lifelong learners (e.g. TESDA Alumni). 8 Kruhay!
REFERENCES (URL, Retrieved on May 21, 2021)
1. https://www.tesda.gov.ph
2. https://extension.harvard.edu/blog/lifelong-learning-the-evolving-future-of-higher-education/
3. https://kealakai.byuh.edu/the-university-chorale-under-the-direction-of-student-director-lawrence-laureano-performs-with-praise-to-god-and-aloha-spirit-according-to-audience-members
4. https://www.tesda.gov.ph/About/TESDA/10
5. https://www.tesda.gov.ph/News/Details/16582
6. https://www.dti.gov.ph/archives/news-archives/pttc-msme-global-academy/
7. https://www.bworldonline.com/bill-filed-on-pension-social-security-benefits-for-farmers-and-fishermen/
8. https://www.conted.ox.ac.uk/about/friends-of-lifelong-learning
Vincent Carlo Duran Cuzon 