“Formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune.”
-Jim Rohn-
Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP)
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) aims to safeguard and promote the welfare and well-being of OFWs. In lieu of this, OWWA offers scholarships, insurance, and education program for OFWs and their dependents.
One of the many ways OWWA provides support is through its various scholarship and educational assistance programs. Among these is the Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP)—a remarkable initiative that empowers OFW dependents by providing them with access to technical and vocational education.
What is the Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP)?
The SESP is a scholarship grant designed specifically for qualified dependents of active OWWA members. The goal of the program is to enhance the employability of the dependents by equipping them with job-ready skills through short-term technical and vocational courses. In collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), OWWA ensures that these scholars receive high-quality training in in-demand fields.
This partnership with TESDA makes it possible for eligible dependents to enroll in courses lasting either six months or one year. Depending on the duration of the course, the financial support provided under the program varies:
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For one-year TESDA-accredited courses, the financial assistance is PhP 14,500
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For six-month courses, beneficiaries can receive PhP 7,250
Importantly, the financial assistance is paid directly to the accredited training institution, ensuring that the funds are used solely for the intended educational purpose.
Who Can Qualify for the SESP?
To qualify for the SESP, both the OFW member and the dependent applicant must meet the following criteria:
OFW Member:
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Must be an active OWWA member at the time of application.
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Must have made at least one (1) membership contribution.
OFW Dependent:
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Must pass the TESDA Qualifying Examination or the Multiple Aptitude Battery Test (MABT).
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Must be not older than 21 years old if a child or sibling of the OFW.
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If a spouse of a married OFW, they are also eligible regardless of age.
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Must have at least elementary level educational attainment.
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For unmarried OFWs, only their siblings who are not older than 21 years old may qualify.
What Are the Required Documents?
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
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Accomplished Application Form (2 copies)
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1×1 ID photos (2 copies)
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Form 137, Report Card, Transcript of Records (TOR), or any certified proof of grades
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Proof of OWWA Membership (such as an official receipt of contribution or the OFW E-Card)
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Proof of relationship to the OFW (such as PSA-authenticated birth certificate or marriage certificate)
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Barangay Clearance
Make sure all documents are original or authenticated copies to avoid delays in processing your application.
What Courses Can You Enroll In Under SESP?
TESDA offers a wide array of industry-relevant technical and vocational courses under the SESP program, including:
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Agriculture and Fishery
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Processed Food and Beverages
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Tourism (Hotel and Restaurant Management)
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Metals and Engineering
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Garments and Textile Work
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Information Technology and Communications
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Health and Social Services
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Decorative Crafts
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Mechanics
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Gifts, Toys, and Housewares Production
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Jewelry Design and Manufacturing
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Furniture and Fixtures
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Construction Trades
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Maritime and Land Transport
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Social and Personal Services
These courses are aligned with both local and international labor market demands, providing graduates with greater chances of employment and entrepreneurship.
Final Thoughts
The Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP) is more than just a financial grant—it’s an opportunity for OFW families to build better futures. By developing skills that are highly sought after in the workforce, beneficiaries of SESP can secure stable jobs or even start their own businesses. It’s a testament to OWWA’s continued commitment to empowering the families of our modern-day heroes—our OFWs.
If you or someone you know is qualified, don’t miss the chance to apply. Your skills journey—and your brighter future—could begin today.
For more information, visit the OWWA website at https://www.owwa.gov.ph/
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A multi-award-winning blogger and advocate for OFWs and investment literacy; recipient of the Mass Media Advocacy Award, Philippine Expat Blog Award, and Most Outstanding Balikbayan Award. Her first book, The Global Filipino Bloggers OFW Edition, was launched at the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait. A certified Registered Financial Planner of the Philippines specializing in the Stock Market. A recognized author of the National Book Development Board of the Philippines. Co-founder of Teachers Specialist Organization in Kuwait (TSOK) and Filipino Bloggers in Kuwait (FBK). An international member of writing and poetry. Published more than 10 books. Read more: About DiaryNiGracia
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