MANILA -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), together with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), officially launched the "Tsuper Iskolar" program in Cebu on Friday.
"Tsuper Iskolar” aims to provide scholarships and livelihood training to drivers, especially those affected by the public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization. It also provides beneficiaries and their families with free skills training, skills assessment, and entrepreneurship training.
A total of 18 transport sector cooperatives in Cebu and nearby provinces participated in the launch, according to TESDA.
The program was previously launched in the National Capital Region, as well as in the Ilocos, Zamboanga, Northern Mindanao, and Davao regions, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
TESDA Secretary Isidro Lapeña earlier told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) that the two agencies will bring "Tsuper Iskolar" nationwide.
He said everyone is welcome to apply for the program but priority will be given to drivers affected by the PUV modernization program, their families, indigenous people, and rebel returnees.
"Anyone interested to avail of this program can apply," he said, adding that trainees receive a daily allowance of PHP350.
Among the courses they can choose from are Heavy Equipment Operation (Forklift) NC II, Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II, Food and Beverage Services NC II, Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) NC II, Housekeeping NC II, Caregiving NC II, Driving NC II, Bread and Pastry Production NC II, Beauty Care Services NC II, and Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II.
Lapeña said the DOTr has allotted a PHP300 million budget for "Tsuper Iskolar" for 2019. The program will continue as needed. (PNA)
