In line with planned activities for the year, PinoyME Foundation (PinoyME) and the Hanns Seidel Foundation/Germany (HSF) convened on 11-12 October 2012 its partners from microfinance institutions (MFIs) and educational institutions (EIs) which are implementing the “Dual Training System Competency-Based Education (DTS CBE) for Microfinance” in key locations in the country, specifically in Bicol, Nueva Ecija, Iloilo and National Capital Region.

After the presentation of “Project Updates” and discussion of “Key Issues and Challenges in Program Implementation”, the facilitator guided the participants in developing the quality assurance system for the program. It followed the “8-step DTS CBE Implementation Framework” from initiation to employment. The group identified “quality standards” for each step that will serve as the benchmark for program implementers, i.e., MFIs, EIs, Local Program Committees (LPCs), Local Microfinance Councils (MFCs) and the National Consortium. The schools and the MFIs were able to exchange their experiences in implementing the program in the last 3-4 years. Both the CHED and TESDA tracks as well as an equivalency system are ongoing. As of June 2012, the program has a total enrolment of 448 students.

Some of the matters raised were the implementation of the K to 12 curriculum which is seen to have an impact on the DTS CBE program for the CHED Track and Equivalency System, further standardization of the curriculum among implementing EIs, review and enhancement of self-contained learning modules/ packages for Loan Officers, continuous training of faculty/instructors, in-company training of students, and requiring students and instructors to take the National Certificate Level II (NC II). A major action research was proposed to help in reviewing the implementation of the DTS CBE for Microfinance in relation to K to 12, NC II certification, Equivalency System, and proposed standard curriculum for partner EIs. The sharing and discussion were vigorous and informative.

Thereafter, the National DTS CBE Implementers Network was formed. Mr. Danilo Songco, President and CEO of PinoyME gave a presentation on the DTS CBE National Program Management Framework. The group identified 9 critical roles of the national consortium. An organizational meeting was scheduled on November 2012 to discuss the nature of the organization, composition, plans and activities, registration, and adoption of policies and rules. The program partners will also use the occasion to launch the network for wider information dissemination.