Learning by Doing: How TESDA’s Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Program is Shaping the Future Workforce

Tags: TESDA EBET program, enterprise-based training, skills development Philippines, technical education, TESDA training programs

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In today’s fast-changing world, technical skills and practical experience are becoming increasingly valuable. As industries evolve and adapt to technological advancements, there is a growing demand for a workforce that is not only knowledgeable but also highly skilled and work-ready. This is where the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) comes in—particularly through its Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) program. 

The EBET program is one of TESDA’s innovative approaches to bridging the gap between education and employment. It connects schools and companies to ensure that students and trainees gain hands-on experience and workplace exposure even before they officially enter the job market. By integrating training directly into enterprises, TESDA provides an effective model that addresses both unemployment and underemployment, especially among the youth.

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What is TESDA’s EBET Program?

The Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) program is a training strategy that involves direct collaboration between TESDA, educational institutions, and industry partners. It allows students and trainees to acquire competencies in actual work environments, under the guidance of industry practitioners. The core idea is to ensure that learning is aligned with the demands and standards of the workplace.

Unlike traditional classroom-based education, EBET focuses on “learning by doing.” This means trainees get firsthand exposure to the tools, procedures, and standards used in real-world settings. The program includes several modalities such as:

• Dual Training System (DTS)
• Apprenticeship Program
• Learnership Program
• On-the-Job Training (OJT)
• Company-Based Training

Each modality offers unique features but shares a common goal: to produce competent, confident, and employable Filipino workers.

Learn more directly from TESDA’s official page on enterprise-based programs here:
https://tesda.gov.ph/EnterpriseBased

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Dual Training System (DTS): A Synergistic Approach

Among the most popular EBET modalities is the Dual Training System (DTS). In this setup, learning takes place both in school and in the company. Typically, trainees spend about 40% of their time in the educational institution and 60% in the enterprise. This dual approach ensures that students not only gain technical knowledge but also apply what they learn in a real work environment.

DTS has proven effective in improving employment rates among graduates. Companies benefit by having a pool of potential future employees who are already familiar with their operations, while students gain experience that gives them an edge in the job market.

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Apprenticeship and Learnership Programs

TESDA’s Apprenticeship and Learnership Programs are designed to train individuals on specific skills and competencies required by an employer. Apprenticeship is typically geared toward skilled work in trades such as automotive, welding, electronics, and construction. Learnership, on the other hand, usually targets semi-skilled positions and includes theoretical instruction alongside workplace training.

Both programs are governed by the Labor Code of the Philippines, which ensures that apprentices and learners are given fair treatment and reasonable compensation during their training period. Moreover, companies that participate in these programs can enjoy incentives such as tax deductions for training expenses.

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Advantages of EBET for Students and Trainees

The EBET program provides a multitude of benefits for students and trainees:

1. Workplace Readiness: Trainees gain exposure to real-life work situations, helping them develop discipline, professionalism, and soft skills such as teamwork and communication.
   
   
2. Higher Employability: Practical experience enhances resumes and often leads to faster job placement after graduation.
   
   
3. Confidence Building: Being immersed in a real working environment allows trainees to build confidence in their skills and decision-making abilities.
   
   
4. Industry Certification: In many cases, successful trainees receive certification recognized by both TESDA and industry partners, giving them added credentials in the job market.
   
   
5. Earning While Learning: Some EBET programs offer allowances or stipends, enabling students to support themselves while gaining education and training.
   
   

To check available TESDA courses, visit their course finder:
https://www.tesda.gov.ph/TVI

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Benefits for Employers and Industry Partners

The EBET program is also beneficial to employers:

1. Custom-Fit Workforce: Companies can train students based on their operational standards and needs, resulting in a better fit between employee and employer.
   
   
2. Lower Recruitment Costs: By training future employees in-house, companies save time and money in hiring and onboarding.
   
   
3. CSR and Nation-Building: Participation in EBET contributes to social responsibility goals and promotes workforce development in the country.
   
   
4. Tax Incentives: Companies may receive tax breaks and other government incentives for participating in TESDA’s enterprise-based training initiatives.
   
   

Employers interested in partnering with TESDA can refer to this page:
https://www.tesda.gov.ph/Downloads/Partnering_with_TESDA.pdf

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Government and Private Sector Collaboration

TESDA’s EBET program thrives on the active partnership between government and the private sector. The collaboration ensures that curriculum and training standards are always aligned with current industry needs. TESDA works closely with industry boards, chambers of commerce, business associations, and employers to ensure that EBET remains relevant and responsive.

In addition, TESDA regularly updates its Training Regulations (TRs) and Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) based on feedback from industry partners. This dynamic exchange helps address the common issue of skills mismatch, where graduates do not meet the expectations of employers.

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The Role of Schools and Training Institutions

Participating schools and technical-vocational institutions play a vital role in implementing EBET. They are responsible for preparing students with foundational knowledge, ensuring that they meet the minimum requirements before being deployed to companies. Schools also monitor trainees’ progress and coordinate with enterprises to make sure the learning objectives are met.

Moreover, TESDA-accredited institutions are held to high standards of quality and accountability. This ensures that students receive competent instruction and meaningful training throughout the EBET program.

For more on TESDA school accreditation and program offerings:
https://www.tesda.gov.ph/TVI

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A Step Toward Lifelong Learning and Career Progression

EBET is not just about short-term employment. It lays the foundation for lifelong learning and career advancement. Trainees who start with a TESDA program can later pursue National Certificates (NC) in higher levels, enroll in further education, or even start their own businesses. The flexibility and scalability of TESDA’s training system make it possible for individuals to grow in their careers over time.

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Addressing Regional Development and Inclusive Growth

TESDA’s EBET program also supports regional development by bringing training opportunities to underserved areas. Through partnerships with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), training programs are localized and made accessible to people in provinces, barangays, and other remote communities.

This decentralized approach promotes inclusive growth, empowering citizens in rural areas with the skills they need to contribute to their local economies. It also reduces migration to urban centers by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities closer to home.

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Challenges and the Way Forward

Like any educational reform, EBET faces some challenges. Not all companies are equipped or willing to participate in training programs. Some institutions may lack the capacity or resources to manage effective enterprise-based training. There is also a need for continuous improvement in monitoring and evaluation to ensure that both quality and equity are upheld.

However, TESDA continues to enhance the EBET program through digitalization, better policy alignment, and capacity-building for partners. The government is also working to incentivize more businesses to join the movement, realizing that the collective effort of the public and private sectors is essential for national progress.

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Final Thoughts: Building a Skilled Nation

TESDA’s Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) program is more than just a training initiative—it is a visionary strategy for nation-building. By creating strong links between education and employment, TESDA empowers individuals to achieve their full potential while addressing the talent demands of industries.

As the Philippines moves toward a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy, programs like EBET will play a central role in preparing our workforce for the future. Through commitment, collaboration, and continuous improvement, TESDA’s EBET program is helping to build a skilled, resilient, and competitive Filipino nation—one trainee at a time.