The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has announced a significant reduction in the bookkeeping course requirements for Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) treasurers. This change aims to enhance financial management skills among young leaders while making the training more accessible.
Key Takeaways
- TESDA has eliminated the requirement for the lengthy Bookkeeping NC III course.
- SK treasurers are now only required to complete a two-day online Basic Bookkeeping course.
- The new course is available year-round through the TESDA Online Program (TOP).
- Completion of the course will provide a certificate necessary for taking the oath of office.
Changes to Bookkeeping Requirements
As of January 24, 2025, TESDA has officially removed the requirement for SK treasurers to complete the Bookkeeping NC III course, which typically spans approximately 292 hours over a year. Instead, they will now only need to undergo a condensed two-day online Basic Bookkeeping course.
This decision reflects TESDA’s commitment to improving the efficiency and accessibility of mandatory training programs for young leaders in local government.
Course Details
The Basic Bookkeeping course is designed to equip SK treasurers with essential financial management skills. Here are some key aspects of the course:
- Duration: 2 days (online)
- Availability: Year-round via TESDA Online Program (TOP)
- Certification: Participants will receive a certificate upon completion, which is required for taking their oath of office.
Development of Competency Standards
The new competency standard, titled “Bookkeeping for Sangguniang Kabataan Financial Transactions Level II,” was developed through collaborative workshops involving technical experts from the National Youth Commission. The standards were also benchmarked against the Commission on Audit’s Handbook on the Financial Transactions of the Sangguniang Kabataan.
Validation of these standards was conducted with input from SK treasurers across various local government units, ensuring that the training meets the practical needs of the participants.
TESDA's Vision for SK Treasurers
TESDA Director General Jose Francisco Benitez expressed optimism regarding these changes, stating, "We hope these adjustments and initiatives will further enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the mandatory bookkeeping training program and thereby empower our SK treasurers with robust financial management skills that will better equip them to fulfill their responsibilities effectively at the local level."
This initiative is part of TESDA’s broader strategy to support the development of young leaders in the Philippines, ensuring they are well-prepared to manage public funds responsibly and effectively.
Conclusion
The reduction of bookkeeping course requirements by TESDA marks a significant step towards empowering Sangguniang Kabataan treasurers. By simplifying the training process, TESDA aims to foster a new generation of financially literate leaders who can contribute positively to their communities.
Sources
- TESDA reduces bookkeeping course requirements for SK treasurers | Philippine News Agency, Philippine News Agency.
