TESDA-PPSAT in Puerto Princesa is taking strides to make technical education more accessible to the deaf community by equipping staff with Filipino Sign Language (FSL) skills. This move aims to close communication gaps that have historically prevented deaf learners from joining TESDA training programs. Inclusion is no longer just a goal, it’s becoming practice.
Bridging the Gap with Sign Language Training
The Puerto Princesa School of Arts and Trades (PPSAT) acknowledges that a major barrier is the lack of personnel who can communicate fluently with deaf learners. In partnership with Uniworld NGO Inc., the school is training its staff from basic to advanced levels in FSL to better serve deaf trainees. PPSAT administrators are even exploring registering FSL as a formal program so deaf students can learn in their own language and possibly teach others.
Empowering Through Opportunity
Beyond just communication, PPSAT plans to offer real work opportunities for the deaf community. For instance, there’s a proposed on campus cafe or canteen run by deaf personnel enabling skills application and social inclusion. The collaboration strives to make technical and vocational education genuinely inclusive not just with open doors but with accessible teaching.
What PPSAT is doing in Palawan is a powerful step toward educational equity. By integrating sign language training and employment pathways, they model how institutions can bring marginalized learners into full participation. Inclusion isn’t just a buzzword it’s something we can see and measure in action.
