On February 16 2023, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in the province of Kalinga launched its skills fair. The event was attended by over 500 participants, including high school and college students, industry representatives, national government employees and local government officials.

The skills fair aimed to showcase the various skills training programs provided by TESDA. The agency’s mission is to provide quality technical education and vocational training to Ikalingas, particularly those who are in the marginalized sector and have limited access to education.

The event featured several activities, including technical assistance for interested individuals, skills demonstrations in Bread and Pastry Production, Barista and Mushroom Production. Also, a free service on Manicure, Pedicure and Hilot (Wellness) Massage was showcased by the TESDA graduates.

These skilled trades are essential to any developing community. Learning basic of the above mentioned skills can allow an individual to have a daily income through on-call service that could support their family needs.

The technical assistance provided insights into the different opportunities and career paths that participants could take after completing TESDA courses. Farm schools representative shared their experiences and gave advice on how to succeed in their fields.

The skills fair also aimed to encourage more individuals to invest in themselves to improve their skillset through TESDA courses. The agency hoped that this event would increase the number of Filipinos taking vocational and technical courses, which can lead not only to long-term employment but greater success in one’s career.

TESDA Kalinga has a non-stop services to Ikalingas. They provided great insights and opportunities for the community’s growth and development. It showcased the agency’s efforts to provide quality technical education and vocational training that can help uplift many Filipinos’ lives through skill acquisition. The event also emphasized that TESDA programs are applicable to anyone, whether they are high school graduates, unemployed individuals, or professionals who want to enhance their skills. As such, TESDA Kalinga’s efforts in organizing this event serves as an inspiration to continually provide innovative and inclusive educational opportunities.

Overall, the fair provided a platform for the talents and abilities of the students and workers to be showcased to the community while celebrating with the 4th Bodong Festival in the province. It also served as a platform for potential employers to connect with talented and highly skilled workers in the province, providing more career opportunities for the people of Kalinga.