The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has announced a significant reduction in the requirements for bookkeeping courses aimed at Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) treasurers. This initiative is designed to enhance the financial management skills of youth leaders, making the training more accessible and efficient.
Key Takeaways
- TESDA has eliminated the requirement for the lengthy Bookkeeping NC III course for SK treasurers.
- A new two-day online Basic Bookkeeping course is now mandatory.
- The changes aim to empower youth leaders with essential financial management skills.
New Course Requirements
Previously, SK treasurers were required to complete the Bookkeeping NC III course, which spanned approximately 292 hours over a year. This requirement has now been replaced with a more streamlined approach:
- Course Duration: The new Basic Bookkeeping course lasts only two days.
- Format: The course is available online, allowing for greater flexibility and accessibility.
- Certification: Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate qualifying them to take their oath of office.
Implementation Timeline
The changes were officially implemented on January 24, 2025. TESDA’s Public Information Office confirmed that the Basic Bookkeeping course is now available year-round through the TESDA Online Program (TOP).
Objectives of the New Initiative
The primary goal of this initiative is to equip SK treasurers with the necessary skills for effective financial management. The competency standard, titled "Bookkeeping for Sangguniang Kabataan Financial Transactions Level II," was developed through workshops with technical experts from the National Youth Commission. This standard was also benchmarked against the Commission on Audit’s Handbook on the Financial Transactions of the Sangguniang Kabataan.
Benefits of the New Course
The new Basic Bookkeeping course offers several advantages:
- Accessibility: The online format allows participants to learn at their own pace and convenience.
- Efficiency: Reducing the course length from 292 hours to just two days makes it easier for SK treasurers to fulfill their training requirements.
- Empowerment: By enhancing their financial management skills, SK treasurers will be better equipped to handle their responsibilities at the local level.
Conclusion
TESDA’s decision to reduce the bookkeeping course requirements for SK treasurers marks a significant step towards fostering informed youth leadership in the Philippines. By simplifying the training process, TESDA aims to empower the next generation of leaders with the skills they need to manage finances effectively and contribute positively to their communities.
