Study-visit in Japan(July 17-18th）: Japan-WAPES Joint Project for the Philippines
Dynamic peer learning discussions for PESO five-point agenda took place in Tokyo and Saitama.
On July 17-18, the three nominated members from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) of the Philippines visited Japan for a study visit as part of the Japan-WAPES Joint Project for the Philippines. The main objectives are to have mutual learning regarding the respective measures of the PES (Public Employment Services) in line with DOLE’s ‘PES five-point agenda’ and facilitate peer-learning discussions by leveraging the WAPES self-assessment expertise.
During a two-day visit, over 15 officials from the headquarters of MHLW (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Japan) and Saitama Regional Labour Bureau, as well as a general manager of the youth support facility, were actively involved in discussions, presentations, and facility tours with three delegates from the DOLE. The covered topics were varied, ranging from the basic structure of mutual PESO to effective and efficient approaches, as well as the risks of AI utilization in practical job counseling.
The peer learning discussion highlighted:
– How the service quality in local PESOs can be standardized and how PESO staff can maintain and improve their expertise through the central government’s interventions
– Synergies among PES sectors, employers, education/training facilities, welfare sectors, and local government through collaborations and network building
– How to encourage more job seekers and employers to access PESO services
– Helpful approaches to enable students and youth with mental or physical difficulties to shift to employment smoothly, or refer to appropriate support
– Effective utilization and the risks of digitalization, such as AI, in practical operation in PESO
The next step is to delve into the peer learning discussion, aiming to reach the final goal of developing a toolkit that provides suggestions to improve quality and optimize measures, and share good practices and challenges on both sides. The findings will be shared with all WAPES members.
Minako TAKASAKI