UP Diliman (UPD) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority–National Capital Region (TESDA-NCR) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that aims to assist in the conduct of the UPD Human Resource Development Office (HRDO) Skills Training and Enhancement Program for UP Employees (STEP-UP).

HRDO Director Arthur A. Gonzales III explained that the STEP-UP “is designed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills that will help their organizations.” He added that it intends to improve “employees’ capabilities and performance in the workspace and enhance their functional competencies to withstand the challenges of contemporary times, and to sustain and enhance productivity.”

“UPD recognizes every employee’s crucial role in shaping our University’s legacy. As we face the ever-evolving demands of the contemporary world, equipping each employee with the necessary skills, knowledge is no longer an option, it is an imperative,” Gonzales said.

UPD Chancellor Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II also emphasized that the University values its workforce.

“Pinapahalagahan [namin] ang bawat isang empleyado at gusto namin silang hindi lang maging kontento, at hindi rin mapag-iwanan ng panahon, at lumawak ang kanilang kaalaman at magamit nila ito sa kanilang buhay lalo na rito sa pagtratrabaho nila sa UP,” Vistan added.

Meanwhile, UPD Vice Chancellor for Administration Adeline A. Pacia said, “The MOA signing marks a significant milestone in our shared commitment to empowering individuals and fostering growth through education and skills development.”

According to the vice chancellor, the partnership seeks to boost the UPD personnel’s technical skills, equip them with cutting-edge knowledge and tools, and promote lifelong learning, among others.

TESDA-NCR Regional Director Jovencio M. Ferrer Jr. lauded the University for partnering with TESDA-NCR.

“In most organizations, the most focus is geared towards financial investment, increase in sales and profit, but unfortunately forget their important resource, its people doing the work,” he explained.

According to Ferrer, the Technical Vocational Education and Training of TESDA-NCR is offered to “employees who want to learn new skills and be ahead of their careers for either promotion, new assignment, or even retirement as part of our continuous people empowerment or livelihood learning program.”

The HRDO had already identified TESDA-NCR 23 course offerings which were aligned with the functional groupings and competencies of the University. Some of these were computer system servicing, driving, mechatronics, electrical installation, carpentry, construction, and painting.

Gonzales said there are future plans of tapping TESDA-NCR for wellness programs like urban organic farming, aquafarming, and organic produce farming.

Also present at the MOA signing were HRDO Deputy Director Kristian July R. Yap, HRDO Human Resource Development and Benefits Division Chief Leizel P. Lectura, HRDO Training Section Chief Maria Amelia S. Manlolo, TESDA–Quezon City District Director Nomer M. Pascual, and TESD Specialist Carl Sanvictores.

UPD’s three-year partnership with TESDA-NCR was signed on Feb. 13 at the UPD Industrial Engineering and Mechanical Engineering Building Conference Room.