The Philippines could learn from Germany’s use of a dual vocational system to help address the problem of unemployment, Vice President Jejomar Binay said. Binay, who recently returned from a working visit in Germany, said the dual vocational system is reason for the relatively low unemployment among German youths. “We hope we can apply a similar scheme in the Philippines especially with the implementation of the K-12 program and we look forward to a possible cooperation with Germany on this in the future,” he said. Binay, the presidential adviser on overseas Filipino worker concerns, discussed the matter with German Labor Minister Dr. Ursula von der Leyen during his recent working visit to Germany. He said von der Leyen, who talked about the dual education system with the chief executive officer of Ayala Corp., “expressed her interest to return to the Philippines to speak more about the dual vocational system of training.” Also, he said Germany is offering to help the Philippines integrate the K-12 basic education system to the dual vocational system. Under the German dual vocational system, students take apprenticeships in a company and vocational education at a vocational school. The training at the firm lasts two to three-and-a-half years, with the trainees getting a certificate at the end of the training. Binay also noted those taking the vocational courses are treated like professionals. “Isa ‘yan sa ipinagmamalaki nila. That is giving dignity doon sa mga vocational courses,” he added. Equivalency of academic degrees Meanwhile, Binay said he and Read More …
