At least 15 indigenous peoples (IP) members from Sto. Domingo, Albay, benefited from a short course on assembling solar nightlights and post lamps through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Southern Luzon Technological Colleges Foundation Institute (SLFTCI) on Tuesday.

TESDA-Bicol Regional Director Archie Grande said the short course is part of the micro-credential courses for community-based training, depending on community needs.

TESDA, through SLFTCI, taught hands-on assembly and maintenance of solar nightlights and post lamps, recognizing that skills development must be inclusive, accessible and responsive to communities.

“The identified IP beneficiaries identified that they need solar-powered light through the Southern Luzon Technological Colleges Foundation Institute (SLFTCI), which is conducted in batches,” Grande said.

Grande added that they have “special clients” that include IPs, geographically isolated and displaced areas, and far-flung areas.

“Aside from solar-powered light, we also have courses for agriculture, tourism, and construction. We have so many courses on agriculture since after the pandemic, we need food security,” he added.

Jimrex Valencia, 23, an IP member from Sto. Domingo, thanked the government through TESDA for the training.

“I learned a lot, thanks to TESDA for training and inviting us,” Valencia said, adding he will use what he learned to operate a solar lamp and panel provided to them, as their house has no electricity.

Rema Salbio, 35, an IP member from Sto. Domingo and a mother of five, said she learned how to use and assemble a solar light as part of the training, which is a big help to her family since they do not have electricity in their home. (PNA)