MANILA – The United States, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), has donated P25 million worth of educational materials to support skill-building and employment programs for out-of-school youth in the Philippines.
During the USAID Opportunity 2.0 (O2) Youth and Partners Summit in Quezon City on November 13, 2024, USAID Philippines Mission Director Ryan Washburn officially handed over the donation, which is set to benefit over 200,000 young people.
This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to provide educational resources and skills training through programs like the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Alternative Learning System, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s (TESDA) vocational training, and the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Youth Entrepreneurship Program.
“Our mission is to empower out-of-school youth by equipping them with the tools and training they need to secure quality employment and build successful careers,” said Washburn.
“Through strong partnerships with DepEd, TESDA, DTI, and other agencies, we are fostering a supportive learning environment for youth across the country.”
The donation includes work-readiness modules, entrepreneurship handbooks, and teacher training manuals. It also provides resources for local governments to create networks that address the unique needs of out-of-school youth.
Since launching in 2020, USAID’s Opportunity 2.0 program has helped more than 90,000 young Filipinos access education and vocational training, with over 82,000 completing workforce development programs. In addition, more than 6,400 educators have received training in innovative methods tailored to the needs of out-of-school youth, and over 2,200 businesses have offered work-based learning and job opportunities.
With this donation, USAID continues its commitment to helping Filipino youth build brighter futures through education and skill development.
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