Project News

I am very pleased to participate in the JICA Training entitled "Technical Vocational Education in High Schools in Japan ". The Training Course including our arrival in and departure from Japan were superbly organized up to their minutest details.

In JICA Tokyo International Center and JICA Tokyo Headquarters, the Philippine delegates listened to significant lectures on Japan's Technical Vocational Education. We also learned about Technical -Vocational Education trends in the different parts of the world. Other interesting activities include school visits to different tech-voc schools in Tokyo, Chiba and Kochi Prefectures. We also visited one general school in Kochi Prefecture. In all these visits, we felt the genuine and warm hospitality of the school officials and teachers. They enthusiastically shared to everyone their experiences and best practices in delivering their tech-voc curriculum. We marveled at their more than sufficient tools and equipment for the skills development of their students who are usually taught by at most ten in a class with two teachers facilitating the learning. We observed how the students donned in their complete workshop uniform, diligently worked on their tasks. Because of rigid supervision, complete tools and equipment and other learning materials, all students get comprehensive training in their field of study. For example, a mechanical engineering senior high school student is trained in machining, automotive, welding and designing.

We also learned that six months prior to the graduation of the Tech-Voc students, they get employed by the companies. How amazing! Furthermore, we were impressed as regard the close collaboration of Industries, Local governments and the Schools. For example, the prefecture (province) or ward (city or municipality) provides financial support to the schools. The schools on the other hand, take an active role in Disaster Mitigation or Preparedness in their areas. Most schools have ready areas, food and medical provisions in case of disaster or emergencies. The neighboring industries accept students for internship, hire the students after graduation, and train the teachers in schools to upgrade or update their skills.

The JICA experience allowed me to fulfill a dream, that is to visit Japan and experience up close its culture for I have always been a fascinated with "Japanese" things; Japanese art, Japanese food, Japanese Train, Japanese dolls and a lot more.

Moreover, during the JICA Training, I have proven that the Japanese are the embodiment of discipline, ingenuity and workmanship which I think we also need to develop not only in our students but with ourselves.

The JICA Training gave all the trainees valuable insights on Tech-Voc Education. And these will be considered as important inputs as we implement the Senior High School Program in our schools. Our splendid social and cultural experiences in Japan will always be remembered. Thank you to JICA. Kudos to the organizers, lecturers and school personnel.

Arigatou Gozaimashita!