Life After Graduation of Senior High School-Technical Vocational and Livelihood Track Graduates of Tanza National Trade School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The Philippine response to the Asian regionalism and globalization is the implementation of the K-12 program in 2016, introducing 2years of senior high school after the existing 4 years of junior high school. The K to 12 Program covers Kindergarten and 12 years of basic education (six years of primary education, four years of Junior High School, and two years of Senior High School [SHS]) to provide sufficient time for mastery of concepts and skills, to develop lifelong learners, and to prepare graduates for tertiary education, middle-level skills development, employment, and entrepreneurship (Republic of the Philippines Official Gazette, 2013).

METHODS

The study used a descriptive research design. This design enabled the researcher to gather, analyze, and interpret the status of the participants and to further analyze if the main objective of the senior high school program was attained in Tanza National Trade School. Aside from the descriptive part, an interview was necessary to validate the gathered data on the chosen path and life after the graduation of senior high school students.

RESULTS

Results further show that in a trade school in Cavite, all of the objectives of the K to 12 program were attained in which majority of the graduates of senior high school pursue further education, some are employed, and few become entrepreneurs. TVL track course graduates of Tanza National TradeSchool pursued further education that are in line with their field of specialization such as animation, automotive servicing, bread and pastry production, computer programming, electrical installation and maintenance, electronic products assembly and servicing, and food and beverage services. While shielded metal arc welding and tailoring and hairdressing TVL track graduates pursue further education that are not in line with their field of specialization. The Universal Act of free quality tertiary education in the Philippines or RA 10931 and the tight competition in the global market played significant roles for the graduates to pursue further education. While family financial needs and gained competitiveness through National Certifications are substantial for the graduates to be employed after graduation.

DISCUSSIONS

Generally, all the objectives of K to 12 program were attained in Tanza National Trade School which majority of the graduates of senior high school pursue further education, some are employed, and few become entrepreneurs.