The Information Technology (IT) Training Program is one of OWWA’s short-term training programs for OFWs and their qualified dependents, which initially aimed to maintain and enhance connections between OFWs and their families in the country through designated stations and training centers in OWWA Regional Centers.
Also Read: OWWA Programs Benefits Services for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
Eventually, it was revamped into a basic computer literacy program in partnership with esteemed IT giants like Microsoft and Informatics Computer Institute, to cover word processing, spreadsheet and presentation training, desktop publishing, and basic digital media arts training, in order to equip OFWs and their dependents and upgrade their skills for employment.
Take note that this is open and free for active and inactive OWWA members, so should you plan on applying for a job post here or abroad, or you know someone who does, then let this article guide you through the application process.
Contents
Overview
The OWWA IT Training Program is a free training program for OWWA’s active and inactive members in order to enhance their Information Technology skills. This is to help equip students with a comprehensive foundation of basic skills and technology applications to enable them to meet the demand for office automation and other related fields.
Through the years, the fast-paced digital landscape has greatly shaped the way we perceive and navigate the world, and the Internet has made life much closer to our dreams through a touch on the screen. The online set-up has enabled us to adapt further as more and more services become accessible online, including education for livelihood and employment. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is just one of the institutions that have opened such benefits, through their Information Technology (IT) Training Program.
Benefits
The IT Training application process being free of charge is a benefit on its own, but to add to that, approved applicants are entitled to the training program for free as well, so it is similar to a scholarship program.
They may also select either the Informatics branch nearest to them or an available OWWA Regional or Satellite Office for the location of their training.
Qualifications
This program is open for active and inactive OWWA members and their qualified dependents. A dependent is deemed qualified if he or she is either of the following, provided proof of identity and relationship to the OFW member:
- If OFW member is married or a single parent:
- A spouse of the OFW member, or;
- A single child, at least a high school graduate and no older than 20 years
- If the OFW member is single:
- A sibling, single, at least a high school graduate and no older than 20 years
Requirements
Qualified applicants are expected to submit the following documents should they continue with their application:
- Duly accomplished application form
- Proof of OWWA membership, such as recent OR of membership contribution
- Valid ID of applicant and OFW
- Proof of applicant’s relationship to OFW
How to Avail OWWA IT Training Program
Upon completion of the documentary requirements, applicants may pursue their application through the following steps:
- Go to your designated OWWA Regional or Satellite Office, or an Informatics branch near you to get an application form.
- Fill in the required information and attach a copy of each documentary requirement.
- Submit your application at the OWWA Regional or Satellite Office, or your nearest Informatics branch.
- Wait for a confirmation message from an authorized representative regarding your application.
Video: IT Training Lessons from OWWA
To give you an idea of what to expect when you enroll in this short course from OWWA, here’s a video clip showcasing Pinoys learning about basic computer skills. This video was taken a class in Dubai, UAE:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below are some common questions you may have about the IT training program from OWWA:
1. Who are eligible to apply for the IT program? Is it open for inactive OFW members too?
The IT Training Program is open to both active and inactive OWWA OFW members and their qualified dependents. An OFW dependent is deemed qualified if he or she is either a single child or spouse of a married or single parent OFW, or a single sibling of a single OFW. Dependents are expected to provide proof of identity as well as relationship to the OFW member upon application.
2. Does the OWWA IT Training benefit come in cash?
No, approved applicants of the program shall be given a Notice of Award, which they are to present in their selected training center. This shall then count as a free pass confirming their application.
3. How will I know if I have been accepted for the IT Training program?
Approved applicants will be notified via call, text, or email regarding their application.
4. Is this IT Training program available in all OWWA offices?
Due to the agency’s limited budget for the program, only select OWWA Regional and Satellite offices offer this program. However, it is also open in Informatics branches nationwide.
Summary
With the continuing technological advancements influencing our daily routine, it pays to be prepared with the necessary competencies to adapt to its fast pace. OWWA’s IT Training Program sure fits the bill for our OFWs and their dependents who like to step up their game for employment.
For more information on OWWA IT Training and other short-term programs, you may visit their website www.owwa.gov.ph or their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/OWWAofficial. You may also download the OWWA Mobile App to check and maintain your membership and stay connected to the OWWA community.