22 RRCY residents graduate from TESDA courses

MINERVA BC NEWMAN

CEBU CITY – Twenty-two residents/beneficiaries of the DSWD- Regional Rehabilitation Center for the Youth (RRCY) graduated from the Electrical Installation and Maintenance NCII course given by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) as its pioneering batch of TESDA trainees.

“Dili ni namo makalimtan ang inyong mga tabang dili kanamo kay tungod ninyo among ma-angkon among maayo nga parte sa among mga kumunidad -- sa among tagsa-tagsa nga kumunidad puhon-puhon, kung kami makagawas na diri.” Jose, 18 said in his graduation speech. (We will not forget all the help we receive because if it were not for you, we would not be able to recognize our part in our respective communities, especially when we get out of here) imparted Jose, 18, in his graduation speech.

Jose is among the 22 graduates from the TESDA training and he hopes that one day, after his discharge, he can use his acquired skill for sideline works while pursuing his dream to become a social worker to help individuals like him get back on track and live life without fear and uncertainties.

DSWD-7 Regional Director Rebecca Geamala congratulated the graduates on their achievement inside the center and challenged them to forget their past experiences and to ensure that when they are out, they become a different person living with integrity.

“I really wanted all residents of RRCY, before leaving here, you will become a different person. Your integrity will not be questioned and when you work, you will not be disqualified as far as work is concerned,” Geamala said.

Aileen Cuevas, RRCY Head, hopes that through their partnership with TESDA, the residents may be equipped with practical and useful skills that they can use to have a better way of life and ensure productivity once they are discharged from the center.

“In the event nga ma-discharge sila sa center naa na gyud silay certificate sa NCII so that ang uban ani nila kung ganahan sila mopadayon sa skwela, makapadayon sila ug kung dili kay makatrabaho na gyud sila mahimo gyud silang productive kay naa naman silay income.” (In the event that they may already be discharged from the center, they are already NCII passers. Some of them may want to continue their studies and others can find a decent job with good income because they are productive),” Cuevas said.

TESDA is now offering another course, Cookery, to the center and is yet to be relayed to the residents. Cuevas said that residents are given the freedom to sign-up or decline the courses offered because it is a matter of commitment and interest.

She assured though that the social workers, who are also case managers, play a major role in advising which course fits well with every client.

With the continuous strengthening of the relationship between RCCY and TESDA, children in conflict with the law, like Jose, who found themselves inside the center are now given the opportunity to become brand new individuals equipped with the skills and values necessary once they are reintegrated into their community. Ready to face society confidently and without shame of the past. (Photos: DSWD7/Google Images)