Project Overview and Rationale
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has embarked to undertake various studies and researches on TVET programs and related TVET developments with the end view of coming up with evidence-based policy recommendations to be used by the management.  One of which is the Expanded Tracer Study of SY 2000-2001 Post-Secondary Graduates conducted at the latter part of 2002.  

This study was undertaken to ascertain the effectiveness of technical vocational education and training (TVET) programs of all TVET institutions as manifested by the employability of its graduates.  The results of this study serve as benchmark in determining performance in the provision of middle-level skills development services of the different TVET players of the regions.  It is envisioned to provide signals on the kind of jobs TVET graduates go into; their income levels; the length of job search before landing their first job; and the certification, among others.  Sub-module of the study was the evaluation of the PESFA graduates during the same period.

This undertaking was done as part of the regular Monitoring and Evaluation of Training Performance (METP) System spearheaded by the Planning Office of TESDA.  The previous conduct of the graduate tracer study was undertaken in 2000.  

Project Objectives
Generally, the study aims to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of TVET programs being conducted by the TESDA Training Centers, TESDA Administered Schools and private TVET providers.  The results of the study will serve as a tool in determining policy recommendations that will guide TESDA in its planning and policy making functions for the whole sector.

Specifically, the study aims to:

•   Estimate the employment, absorption and skills utilization rate of TVET graduates for TESDA Training Centers, Administered Schools and private TVET providers;

•   Establish the income levels of the employed graduates;

•   Estimate average length of job search;

•   Provide indications on courses for which graduates have better chance of employment;

•   Analyze the type of employment the TVET graduates find a job;

•   Compare the performance of competency assessment passers vs. non-passers in terms of employment;

•   Identify reasons for unemployment;

•   Identify reasons for not joining the labor force.

Coverage of the Study
The study covered the graduates of all TVET programs from both the public and private TVET institutions.  Specifically, the study covered school-based programs for SY 2000-2001 graduates while the center-based programs included the CY 2001 graduates.