TESDA Offers Scholarship Grant for Drivers and Family, Others

Drivers and their relatives and other stakeholders are encouraged to take advantage of the latest scholarship program being offered by TESDA and DOTr.

TESDA Director General Isidro Lapeña recently led the regional launching here of the “Tsuper Iskolar” Program, a collaboration between the Department of Transportation and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

Tsuper Iskolar, Sec. Lapeña explained, offers skills training primarily to drivers and their families in preparation for the implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).

“Tsuper Iskolar provides additional skills that could lead to other opportunities especially for those who are working in the public transport sector.”

Lapeña said courses that beneficiaries may enroll in are not confined to driving-related skills but could also include other technical vocational courses such as heavy equipment operation, carpentry, masonry, electrical installation and maintenance, welding, automotive repair, and other skills that “could lead to greener pastures.”

“Tsuper Iskolar is also open to new stakeholders such as indigenous peoples, rebel returnees, overseas Filipino workers, persons with disability, and many others,” Lapeña emphasized.

During the launching on August 9, a total of 1,496 individuals in SOCCSKSARGEN Region have already applied for the Tsuper Iskolar program through partner transport organizations and cooperatives. These scholarship grants, he estimated, already amount to about P23 million.

Beneficiaries will receive P350 per day for the 35-day training.

Lapeña noted that TESDA still accepts applicants for Tsuper Iskolar.

Although carried out by TESDA, Tsuper Iskolar Program is being funded by the DOTr, which initially earmarked P350 million for its nationwide implementation.

“Another P350 million may be added to the program, if needed,” Lapeña said.

Interested individuals may visit the nearest TESDA field office for further information.

Application may also be coursed through local transport groups or cooperatives or the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.

Graduates of TESDA skills trainings are assured of assistance for employment. (DED-PIAXII)