TESDA Strengthens Global Ties for Agricultural Training

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is looking to extend its partnership with Israel to advance agricultural training in the Philippines. At the same time, it is exploring potential collaborations with Botswana to enhance technical-vocational education and training (TVET).

TESDA Secretary Jose Francisco Benitez emphasized the importance of modern agricultural technologies and international best practices in shaping the future of Philippine agriculture.

“A big part of advancing the agriculture sector is technology. Through AgroStudies, aspiring Filipino farmers have a way to learn about Israel’s smart technologies, as well as best business practices and mindsets that translate to success in farming,” Benitez told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

 

Israel-Philippines Agricultural Training Program

TESDA first partnered with Agrostudies International Training Center in 2020 to provide Filipino trainees with hands-on experience in advanced agricultural techniques. The 11-month internship program covers:

  • Smart farm technologies
  • Horticulture and animal science
  • Entrepreneurial initiatives in agriculture

Since the program’s launch, hundreds of Filipinos have benefited from the experience. The first batch of trainees went to Israel in March 2021, and the latest batch of 694 individuals left for Israel in December 2024.

TESDA officials recently met with Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss to discuss the future of the program. Both sides expressed their commitment to modernizing agricultural and vocational training, ensuring that Filipino workers remain competitive in the global market.

Exploring a New Partnership with Botswana

In addition to its work with Israel, TESDA is actively seeking new international collaborations. Last month, Botswana Ambassador to the Philippines Major General Gotsileene Morake (Ret.) met with Benitez to discuss potential joint projects for skills development.

Botswana has a Vocational Brigades program, which equips young people with practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship. TESDA sees this as an opportunity to learn from Botswana’s experience and strengthen its own technical training programs.

“Learning from the experiences of countries like Israel and Botswana helps us strengthen our training programs to better serve Filipino workers and address both local and international workforce needs, ensuring no Filipino is left behind,” Benitez stated.

Impact and Future Outlook

TESDA’s global initiatives align with its goal of enhancing workforce competitiveness and promoting sustainable livelihoods. By leveraging international expertise, the agency hopes to:

  • Improve agricultural productivity through modern technologies
  • Provide Filipino workers with global career opportunities
  • Strengthen local vocational training programs through international cooperation

With continuous support from international partners, TESDA is poised to make significant strides in agriculture and technical skills training, ensuring that Filipinos are well-equipped for the future of work.

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