CITE hosted multi-sectoral forum entitled Skilled Workers Forum: Pathways to Germany—Education, Apprenticeship, and Employment on July 17, 2025. The event brought together key figures from the German business community and Philippine industry partners to explore workforce trends and international opportunities for skilled workers.
The forum organized by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Jose Ramiro A. Carpio, Jr., President and Executive Director of CITE, setting the tone for a high-impact morning of learning and collaboration.
In the first keynote address, Mr. Matthias Merzhäuser of the German Mittelstand BVMW highlighted Germany’s growing demand for skilled labor and how Filipino workers can meet this global need.
This was followed by presentations by experts from various sectors: Ms. Paula Sponholz of TSA Stahl presented on career paths in metal construction, while Mr. Melvin Rüth of Kapwa Online Solutions underscored the importance of digital skills in the global economy.
Ms. Gina Dantes – Sta. Maria of SM Care Solutions GmbH also shared insights on healthcare workforce trends.
An overview of CITE program was presented by IGCR Director Mr. Dariel Lauron, followed by a panel discussion and open forum moderated by Mr. Marlon C. Valencia, CITE’s HRD and Administrative Director.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Mr. Arnaldo Baltazar Diez, ECCP Vice-Chair for Education and Philippine representative to BVMW, who emphasized the importance of international cooperation in workforce development.
This forum reinforced CITE’s commitment to bridging education with global employment opportunities, equipping students with the skills and mindset to thrive in a competitive, interconnected world.
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