Nine Hundred thirty four (934) graduating students from Laguna University gathered at the Laguna Sports Complex Gymnasium on Thursday, 8th of June, 2023, for a comprehensive Job Hunting and Employability Coaching and Personality Enhancement Seminar. The event, conducted face-to-face, was organized in collaboration with the Provincial Public Employment Services Office (P-PESO) of Laguna, under the leadership of Ms. Mary Jane T. Banasihan-Corcuera, Provincial PESO Manager.
The seminar aimed to equip the graduating students with valuable insights and skills necessary to excel in the labor market. The sessions revolved around two key topics, namely Labor Market Information and Job Skills Mismatch, led by expert speakers Ms. Kath Martinez and Ms. Mary Jane T. Banasihan-Corcuera, respectively.
During her session, Ms. Kath Martinez shed light on the differences between Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0. Industry 4.0 primarily focuses on machinery, often overshadowing the human element, while Industry 5.0 emphasizes people-centered approaches, aiming for sustainability and resiliency.
Ms. Martinez also discussed the various job skills mismatches that can occur. These include skills mismatch, where there is either a deficit or oversupply of skills; qualification mismatch, where employees may be over- or under-educated for their roles; and regional and sectorial mismatches.
On the other hand, Ms. Mary Jane T. Banasihan-Corcuera elaborated on the essential life skills that job seekers must possess. These skills include responsibility, cooperation, kindness, loyalty, compassion, courage, gratitude, honesty, respect, and forgiveness.
Furthermore, the seminar highlighted the top 10 soft skills that are highly sought after by employers. These include strong work ethics, dependability, a positive attitude, self-motivation, teamwork, organization, the ability to work well under pressure, effective communication, flexibility, and confidence.
Additionally, the session emphasized the top 5 behavioral skills and functional skills fresh graduates should possess. Behavioral skills encompass a willingness to learn, honesty, initiative, self-motivation, and self-confidence. Functional skills include communication skills, trainability, competence, problem-solving and analytical abilities, and technology know-how.
The seminar also covered other pertinent information related to employment and the labor market, such as the causes of job mismatch and the importance of work ethics. Attendees were provided insights into the factors that contribute to demonstrating good ethics and building a strong work ethic.
Furthermore, PESO Laguna introduced the PLEIS (PESO Laguna Employment Information System), a user-friendly platform that enables job seekers to search for employment opportunities from the comfort of their own homes. Currently, the PLEIS boasts partnerships with nearly 147 companies, providing an extensive database of job openings.
The seminar commenced with welcoming words from Ms. Emelyn U. Napiza, Director, Office of Student Affairs and Services, and was further supported by Ms. Chrisna L. Fucio, Prefect of Discipline, and Ms. Flor S. Minas, Head of Admissions, Students Activities, and School Organizations. Dr. Gualolarina C. Fernandez, RGC, Guidance Counselor, was also in attendance, lending the event added significance.
With the insights gained from the Job Hunting and Employability Coaching and Personality Enhancement Seminar, the graduating students of Laguna University are better equipped to navigate the competitive job market and secure rewarding employment opportunities.
By: EUN / John Diego C. Brosas
