Manila: The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has reduced the bookkeeping course requirements for Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) treasurers. They are now only required to complete a two-day online Basic Bookkeeping course instead of the more extensive Bookkeeping NC III, which took approximately 292 hours over a year.

According to Philippines News Agency, TESDA's Public Information Office (PIO) announced this change on Monday, noting that the removal of the Bookkeeping NC III requirement began on January 24. The new basic course is available year-round via the TESDA Online Program (TOP).

TESDA stated in a news release that the course aims to upskill SK treasurers for more effective financial management. The competency standard, "Bookkeeping for Sangguniang Kabataan Financial Transactions Level II," was developed through workshops with technical experts from the National Youth Commission and benchmarked against the Commission on Audit's Handbook on the Financial Transactions of the Sangguniang Kabataan. These standards were validated by SK treasurers from various local government units.

TESDA Director General Jose Francisco Benitez expressed hope that these changes will enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the mandatory bookkeeping training program, empowering SK treasurers with strong financial management skills to better fulfill their local responsibilities.

Completion of the two-day online course will earn participants a certificate, qualifying them to take their oath of office, according to TESDA.