July 29, 2024
On July 26, 2024, Ariel N. Abarratigue, the Quality Assurance Staff of OIAs, attended a forum titled “Germany Awaits: Take the Next Step in Your Education and Career” held in Mactan, Cebu City. The event was hosted by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) in collaboration with Sprach Institut-Cebu and The German Mittelstand, BVMW – Philippines.
Mr. Antonio S. Peralta, Chairman of ECCP Southern Mindanao Business Council, delivered the welcoming remarks, emphasizing that the event aimed to explore the opportunities offered by Germany’s educational institutions and industries. He highlighted the potential of learning and working in the world’s third-largest economy by Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Next, Mr. Arnaldo Baltazar Diez, a representative of the German Mittelstand of the Philippines, clarified that the program was not a recruitment event but an information dissemination forum. He concluded his talk with the German phrase “Vielen Dank,” meaning “thank you.”
Then, Ms. Brenette Abrenica, Internationalization Head of the University of San Carlos (USC), shared USC’s existing German and European partnerships, highlighting their internationalization experiences, framework, engagements, and lessons learned.
Afterward, Ms. Jocelyn C. Diez, Head of the Ausbildung Program and one of the event’s speakers generated excitement among the participants as she discussed the Ausbildung program. This program, also known as the dual education system, is a unique aspect of the German education system that combines practical, on-the-job training in a company with theoretical education in a vocational school. She noted that recipients of this program are provided with a monthly allowance, provided they meet all the program’s requirements.
Finally, during the open forum, Mr. Matthias Merzhaüser, the representative of The German Mittelstand of Germany, was asked by the moderator what can be expected of a German citizen. He proudly responded that Germans are punctual and straightforward in their work.
The event was attended by representatives from various schools, TESDA representatives, VISA company representatives, and students.
The event encouraged participants to engage and availed of educational programs offered by Germany and explore the opportunities available. Through insightful presentations by speakers’ well-versed in Germany’s educational system and business sector, the event also opens opportunities for SSU students and faculty planning to take their next step in Germany.
