Over 54,000 SHS-TVL learners get free skills assessment

Over 54,000 students from the Senior High School – Technical Vocational Livelihood (SHS-TVL) track obtained free National Certification (NC) assessment, the Department of Education (DepEd) said on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / NINO JESUS ORBETA

MANILA, Philippines — Over 54,000 students from the Senior High School – Technical Vocational Livelihood (SHS-TVL) track benefitted from the free National Certification (NC) assessment, the Department of Education (DepEd) said on Tuesday.

The DepEd noted an increase in SHS-TVL learners participating in the free NC assessment program. It added that 54,694 students received their certifications as of February 28, 2025.

“The most in-demand certifications during this period included Computer Systems Servicing NC II, Bread and Pastry Production NC II, Cookery NC II, Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II, and Food and Beverage Services NC II—highlighting the diverse career pathways available to SHS learners,” the DepEd said in a statement.

READ: DepEd, Tesda sign agreement TVET in SHS

In June 2024, the DepEd and Tesda signed a joint memorandum circular to offer free NC programs for SHS-TVL students through Tesda’s Regulatory Program.

The agency pointed out the low participation in the assessment due to the burden of paying fees ranging from P1,000 to P5,000. Certification rates among SHS-TVL graduates for 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 were only 25.7% and 6.8%, respectively.

It also said that consultations with the Second Congressional Commission on Education revealed the need “to increase funding to cover their assessments and certifications.” The program received additional funding in the 2025 General Appropriations Act to sustain the provision of free NC assessments.

Tesda General Director Secretary Kiko Benitez encouraged more SHS students to join the assessment to obtain NCs.

“In today’s evolving job market, skilled workers have gained the edge. Tech-voc thus offers a viable pathway to gainful employment. Kaya hinihikayat ko ang mga Senior High School learners na magpa-assess para makakuha ng National Certificate (That’s why I am encouraging Senior High School students to join assessments to obtain National Certificate),” Benitez said in the same statement.

READ: DepEd’s priority should be skills training for teachers