P1.9-billion program launched for PH out-of school youth

by Rey E. Requejo, Manila Bulletin, 19 Aug 2020

The United States government on Wednesday announced the inauguration of a P1.9 billion ($37.5 million) project aimed at helping at least 180,000 out-of-school youth in the Philippines attain relevant education, obtain necessary work experience for employment and skills for their livelihood.

The five-year program under the auspices of the US Agency for International Development has been dubbed as “Opportunity 2.0: Second-chance Opportunities for Out-of-school Youth project” that will support the education, employment, and livelihood needs of Filipino out-school-youth Filipinos.

In a statement, the US Embassy in the Philippines said the US government will partner with the Department of Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to augment their ongoing programs to provide relevant education, employability skills, and work experience.

The program will include the DepEd’s enhanced Alternative Learning System and TESDA’s skills training programs.

US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim along with Education Secretary Leonor Briones, and TESDA Director-General Isidro Lapeña graced the virtual launching of the program, which was participated by over 500 participants from across the country.

Ambassador Kim highlighted the continuing US government support for Philippine education, especially for the vulnerable out-of-school youth who are facing significant challenges in education and employment during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Through this new partnership, we can leverage a range of resources to maximize the potential of the Filipino youth, particularly those who are out-of-school or unemployed. With the right knowledge, attitudes, and skills, they will play a pivotal role in this great country’s growth and success over the long-term,” the US envoy said in a speech.

The USAID will partner with local governments in 12 cities across the country to set up Youth Development Alliances that mobilize resources to help their out-of-school youth.

The program will also partner with over 2,200 employers and at least 50 education or training institutions, including major hubs like Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Davao.

The program is being implemented by US-based Education Development Center, with partners Accenture, Philippine Business for Education, Catholic Relief Services, Voluntary Services Overseas, and SEAMEO-Innotech.