Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their dependents can find hope and opportunities through the Short-Term Training Programs offered by OWWA. These initiatives are designed to enhance proficiency, boost employability, and open doors to new career paths.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of the global economy, the need for continuous skill enhancement and adaptability cannot be overstated. The phenomenon of globalization has brought about a significant shift in the demands of the labor market worldwide, making it imperative for workers to constantly update their abilities to remain competitive. This is where the Overseas Filipino Workers and their dependents stand to benefit immensely from the Short-Term Training offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
What are the OWWA Short-Term Training for OFWs & Dependents?
The OWWA Short-Term Training for OFWs & Dependents offer numerous options to upgrade their proficiency, gain certifications, and improve employability in various fields. Here’s a breakdown:
Program Types:
- Technical and Vocational Skills:
- IT (computer literacy, specific applications)
- Beauty care (hairstyling, nail care, makeup)
- Welding, carpentry, automotive repair
- Dressmaking, culinary arts, housekeeping
- Caregiving
- Language courses (English, Japanese, etc.)
- Entrepreneurship:
- Business planning, marketing, financial management
- Starting and managing a small business
- Franchising opportunities
Program Duration:
- These are typically short-term, ranging from 6 months to 2 years.
Financial Assistance:
- OWWA provides financial assistance to eligible participants, making these more affordable.
Significance of the Programs
These short-term programs help OFWs and their dependents by equipping them with valuable skills and certifications. Here’s why they are significant:
- Improved Employability & Livelihood:
- Statistics show that 32% of OFWs return after their contracts end: These help them reintegrate into the Philippine workforce by providing relevant skills and qualifications, leading to better job opportunities and higher earning potential.
- A 2018 study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) found that skills enhancement for OFWs increased their monthly income by 18% on average.
- The also equip dependents with capabilities for employment, contributing to family income and strengthening economic resilience.
- Entrepreneurship & Business Opportunities:
- The Philippines has a large informal sector, where many Filipinos find work. These provide crucial entrepreneurship know-how, allowing individuals to start their own businesses and become self-employed.
- A 2020 OWWA report highlighted that 6,964 OFWs participated in entrepreneurship training in the previous year, with many successfully establishing their own businesses.
- This not only contributes to individual income but also stimulates the local economy and creates employment opportunities for others.
- Upgraded Skillset & Knowledge:
- Globalization demands a constantly evolving skillset. These programs help OFWs stay relevant by updating their technical and vocational capabilities, increasing their chances of securing employment in different sectors.
- Similarly, dependents gain access to valuable knowledge and guidance, improving their overall qualifications and career prospects.
- Social Impact & Empowerment:
- By enhancing employability and income, these contribute to improved living standards and reduced poverty, benefiting families and communities.
- They also address skills gaps and promote workforce development, contributing to the Philippines’ economic growth.
- Additionally, they empower individuals by providing them with tools to be self-sufficient and build a better future for themselves and their families.
Statistics Highlight Impact:
- As of December 2023, over 77,000 Filipinos had benefited from OWWA’s short-term training.
- OWWA reports a 90% employment rate for program graduates, showcasing the effectiveness in enhancing job opportunities.
Benefits
The OWWA training offers numerous advantages:
- Skill Enhancement: From IT to culinary arts, these programs cover a wide array of fields, catering to diverse interests and career aspirations.
- Financial Assistance: OWWA offers up to Php 14,500.00 per course, making education accessible and affordable.
- Certification: Completion leads to TESDA-accredited certificates, enhancing job prospects.
- Entrepreneurship: The knowledge and technical proficiency gained can also serve as a foundation for starting a business.
Eligibility / Qualifications
Eligible participants include:
- Active OWWA members
- Dependents of active members (spouse, children, parents, siblings)
- Balikbayan returnees
These programs are designed to support the continuous learning and development of OFWs and their families, ensuring they remain competitive in the global job market.
Requirements
To apply, candidates must prepare:
- OWWA membership ID
- Valid government-issued ID
- Educational attainment certificate
- Proof of income (for OFWs)
These documents are essential to verify eligibility and ensure that the benefits reach the intended recipients.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply
- Visit OWWA: Start by visiting the OWWA website or your nearest regional office to gather information about the available programs.
- Inquire: Ask about the specific requirements and details of the course/s that interest you.
- Submit Documents: Provide all necessary documentation to prove your eligibility.
- Orientation and Assessment: Attend the sessions to understand the program’s scope and undergo an evaluation.
- Enrollment: Once selected, enroll in your chosen course and embark on your educational journey.
Program Offerings
OWWA’s training programs span various fields such as IT, beauty care, welding, automotive repair, carpentry, dressmaking, culinary arts, housekeeping, caregiving, and language courses. Lasting from 6 months to 2 years, these are tailored to equip participants with the proficiencies needed for employment or entrepreneurship.
Success Stories / Recent Updates
Calling for Qualified Applicants: OWWA’s Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP)
The SESP is a short-term training program offered to qualified OFWs or their dependents for technical or vocational courses in any TESDA-accredited school, MARINA, or other government training institutions. The program provides a maximum assistance of Php 14,500.00 per course. Active OWWA members or their authorized/qualified dependents can apply by presenting their ID or passport, submitting the application form and requirements, and claiming the Notice of Award on the given schedule. Age limits apply depending on the applicant’s relationship with the OFW.
Attention all active OWWA members! Take advantage of the Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP) offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. Enroll at Tenacity Skills Training Institute and Assessment Center, Inc. to pursue short-term tech-voc courses such as Bread and Pastry Production, Cookery, Events Management Services, and Housekeeping. Coming soon, we will also offer Caregiving and Health Care Services (Nursing Aide) qualifications. Don’t miss this opportunity to take your capabilities to the next level!
OWWA is inviting qualified applicants to apply for the Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP). This short-term training program offers financial assistance of up to Php 14,500.00 per course for technical or vocational training in accredited schools. Active OFW members and their authorized dependents are eligible to apply.
Video: FREE Information and Technology Training sa OWWA
The Basic Computer Literacy Program was established to empower OFWs and their families with essential IT skills. Initially focused on improving family connectivity through mobile and internet connections, the program has evolved to provide comprehensive IT training in OWWA Regional Offices and overseas posts. This initiative aims to enhance the employment prospects of OFWs and their dependents by equipping them with valuable IT applications knowledge and techniques.
Conclusion
The OWWA Short-Term Training Programs for OFWs & Dependents represent an investment in the future of Filipino workers and their families. By providing accessible education and skill development opportunities, OWWA not only enhances individual career prospects but also contributes to the economic well-being of the Philippines. Whether you’re aiming to advance in your current field, switch careers, or start your own business, these offer the tools and support needed to turn dreams into reality. Empower yourself and your family by taking advantage of these invaluable resources today.