The Philippine's Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan, 1999-2004, emphasized "economic growth with social equity" and the importance of the private sector in enhancing industrial competitiveness in the global economy. Among others, such strategy would require a continuing supply of highly skilled workforce that could contribute to the competitiveness of the economy in global markets. The technical education and skills development system of the country, which is the main source of technicians and skilled workers suffered from a number of weaknesses including outdated curricula, poor facilities, and inadequate teaching equipment. The system's generally supply-driven orientation adversely affected the quality and relevance of its programs. Equitable access to training opportunities and employment support services especially by the poor in the rural areas, were a problem.
This report validates the completion report's assessment of the project which aims to upgrade the quality and relevance of technical education and skills development programs in the public and private sectors in the Philippines. IED overall assessment: Successful