In the Philippines, there is a huge gap between poor and rich. However, the rapidly growing economy offers opportunities for the underprivileged. The vocational school of Woord en Daad’s partner AMG will become financially independent within a couple of years.
Every year, about 500 students pursue vocational training at the AMG Skilled Hands Technological College in the Philippines. This training will give them better access to the labour market. And a job means they can support their families and themselves.
Valued by employers
Graduates from the vocational school are highly valued by their employers. During their education, they learned a lot about Christian norms and values. Their employers see the value of that on the work floor.
A job
The vocational school has a vast network of entrepreneurs and actively seeks partnerships with companies. Therefore, many students find a job shortly after their graduation. That usually means the living conditions of their entire family improve.
Malody (18) from the Philippines was born without arms, and because of that she always had to stay inside as a child. Now, she is following a two-year vocational training in ICT, and she would love to buy a house for her family when she has found a job.
“Previously, the situation at home was bad. My mum only finished primary education and my father does not earn much. Now, I would really love to earn enough money to buy a home for me and my family. The most important thing is that with the talents God gave me, I can not only secure a better future for myself, but for my family as well.”
Three Trainings
For over 20 years, Woord en Daad has been working with AMG Philippines as a partner organization. The school offers three different training courses and has place for 500 students:
- Information & Communication techniques (2 years)
· Electronics & Communication techniques (2 years)
· Welding techniques (1 year)
Financially independent in 2020
Just like in many other Asian countries, the economy of the Philippines is growing. This offers exciting opportunities for the vocational school. By 2020, Woord en Daad will have completely withdrawn the support it gave the school for many years and from then on the school will operate on its own income. Meanwhile, however, a considerable amount of funding is still needed to keep the school running and to help it expands its network and become independent.
Training courses, teacher’s courses, network among companies
Over €350,000 is needed to cover the costs of the training courses, to provide teachers with the courses they need and to help the school expand its contacts with companies. This investment is the boost the school needs to become financially independent after many years of support.