Skills Training, Bulacan, Philippines

The Chalice Skills Training that was conducted in Bulacan, Philippines was intended to educate the community on various skills that would then allow them to find jobs in the province, or to help out in the Sponsor Site. The various trainings were conducted by accredited members of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), a government institution that handles community development of a given municipality particularly skills training. The courses were conducted through lecture and discussion, demonstrations and hands on applications. The program is now in the process of organizing a cooperative.

The following courses were conducted:

Candle Making

This course was designed to teach the community to learn about the various candles that can be made. This was also taught to create an income for the participants because of the high demand of candles during religious vigils such as All Souls day. The 23 participants learned about the materials of candles, the different candle shapes, scented candles, the cost of materials and how to package them.

Soap Making

This course was designed to provide the members of the community the skills in making soap and other derivatives with the intention of eventually making it a source of income because of its high demand for its daily use in every household. The 22 successful participants now know how to make powdered soap, liquid dish washing soap, herbal bath soap, toilet cleanser, fabric softener and conditioner, car wash liquid soap, stain remover and hand wash soap.

Cosmetology

This course was designed to enhance the knowledge, skills and attitude of the cosmetologist in accordance to industry standards. The course specialized on the competencies on hair care, treatment and cutting. The participants learned how to analyze nail types, giving manicures, hair spa, hair hot oil, hair relaxing and hair cutting. Some of the participants are now employed in local beauty salons.

Cell phone repair

This course was designed to educate community about cell phones and how to repair them. The Philippines is the texting capital of the world, and having this knowledge not only benefits the participant, but also the entire community. The 27 participants learned about the history of the cell phone, the different kinds of cell phones, the external and internal parts of the cell phone and how to repair the cell phone.

Dress Making

This course is designed to provide knowledge and skills in dressmaking, and covered competencies in drafting and cutting patterns, preparing and cutting materials, sewing and applying finishing touches to the apparel. This also covers the knowledge and skills required in preparing and assembling cut parts, preparing sewing machine for operation, sewing garments and components using basic sewing techniques and altering completed garments.

Food Processing

This course is designed to provide the participants the basic skills and knowledge regarding food preparation and cooking as well as food packaging. This allowed for the participants to set up canteens and local eateries to earn an income. The course had the participants prepare various local  snacks and delicacies.