INCHEON, Korea | Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education (CSITE), the pioneer polytechnic institution under TESDA, represented by Executive Director Daisy C. Bungallon, joined the TESDA Technical Working Group (TWG) for Polytechnic Rationalization in Korea to study the advanced technical education system that has produced highly skilled, industry-ready graduates and strong performers in international skills competitions.
Held from August 23 to 28, 2026, the Field Study and Technical Exchange Program on the Polytechnic and Meister School Systems brought the Philippine delegation to Gangui Meister School, Samil Technical High School, Korea Polytechnic University Incheon Campus, and WorldSkills Korea.
The visit provided CSITE and the TESDA TWG with an opportunity to study Korea’s use of advanced curricula, Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies, specialized industry training, and support services in developing technical competencies among young learners. Meister Schools and technical high schools integrate industry-focused preparation at the senior high school level, with students also competing in international skills competitions.
The group also conferred with officials of Korea Polytechnic University Incheon Campus, one of 35 campuses operating across eight regions under the Ministry of Employment and Labor. Discussions focused on the governance of a polytechnic institute in Korea, curriculum standards and approaches, trainer capability programs, and possible exchange collaboration projects with the university.
The TWG was composed of TESDA officials from the Central Office, TESDA training institutions, and Provincial Offices.
For CSITE, the exchange provides relevant insights as the country continues to strengthen its polytechnic education pathway. The firsthand experience of Korea’s practices provides useful reference points for the continuing development of Philippine polytechnic education.
