The Office of Pasig Vice Mayor (OVM) Robert "Dodot" Jaworski Jr. and the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Pasig (PLP) recently launched an upskilling initiative to help college students prepare their future careers. 

Through the Student Success Office of PLP, the OVM seeks to guide and teach students about relevant real-life skills that may enrich their lives beyond college and help them develop fruitful careers when they enter the workforce. 

These will be done through a series of seminars and workshops led by industry experts in various fields. 

The upskilling program includes sessions on developing the critical skills identified by the university as essential to employers. These include communications, writing, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills. 

This is one of the priority programs of the OVM following Jaworski's advocacy on strengthening the quality and capacity of education in Pasig. 

Speaking at PLP for the launch on Nov. 24, the vice mayor noted the value of education to the youth, and emphasized the importance of both academic and practical skills. 

"Pero hindi sapat na maalam lang by the book, mahalaga na magkaroon rin kayo ng mga skills na kailangan sa trabaho katulad ng communication, writing, at speaking skills na hinahanap ngayon sa trabaho (It's not enough to only be 'book-smart,' it's equally important to have skills needed in the workplace like communication, writing, and speaking skills that employers are looking for in jobs)," said Jaworski. 

He mentioned that many of the employers they have talked to have observed that many young people are knowledgeable about concepts but lack application. 

The upskilling program will enable students to hone their talents while training them for the workplace. 

"Student Success is a journey. There is no shortcut except to learn the critical skills as soon as you can and as fast as you can. Mayor Vico and I's commitment is, whatever your speed is, we will be with you every step of the way," remarked Jaworski. 

He further emphasized the City Council's commitment to provide the necessary support to PLP's students that will lead them to create successful lives.