The House of Representatives approved a significant bill on May 7, aimed at transforming the Agusan del Sur School of Arts and Trades (ASSAT) into a polytechnic institute.
The proposed Agusan del Sur Polytechnic Institute Act, known as House Bill No. 8583, received overwhelming support, passing with a majority vote.
Authored by Representatives Alfel Bascug and Adolph Edward Plaza, the bill outlines plans for ASSAT to be restructured as the Agusan del Sur Polytechnic Institute (ADSPI).
Under this new framework, the institute will operate under the supervision of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
The institute will offer a variety of TESDA-registered programs, including technical-vocational education and training, certificate and diploma courses, as well as short-term postsecondary programs.
The bill aims to enhance the school's curriculum to meet industry standards, providing students with essential skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
Priority will be given to economically disadvantaged students, out-of-school youth, persons with disabilities, and indigenous people, ensuring equitable access to education.
Additionally, the ADSPI may function as a TESDA-accredited assessment center, pending accreditation requirements.
Funding for the conversion will be sourced from existing appropriations and integrated into the annual General Appropriations Act.
The bill's passage marks a significant step towards improving educational opportunities in Agusan del Sur, aligning with the government's goals for vocational training.