Labor and Education Departments formalize agreement to boost students’ workplace experience.
- The San Juan Daily Star
- Apr 2
- 2 min read
By THE STAR STAFF
In an effort to strengthen the academic and professional development of students in the island’s public education system, the Department of Labor and Human Resources (DTRH) and the Department of Education have formalized an agreement that will allow students from the system’s five postsecondary institutions to gain hands‑on work experience within the DTRH.
The partnership will benefit students enrolled in occupational and technical education programs—including business administration, accounting and computer systems technology—by giving them the opportunity to apply their academic training in real government work settings. The initiative also aims to help students develop practical skills, work habits and essential competencies needed to enter high‑demand fields.
Labor Secretary María del Pilar Vélez Casanova highlighted the collaboration as part of the González Colón administration’s efforts to expand opportunities for young people. She emphasized that the initiative bridges the gap between education and employment. “This agreement represents a valuable opportunity to connect education with the world of work,” Vélez Casanova said. “We are committed to opening doors for our youth so they can gain real‑world experience, sharpen their skills and prepare to join the workforce successfully. We are betting on a more practical, inclusive approach aligned with the demands of today’s labor market.”
Education Secretary Eliezer Ramos Parés underscored the educational impact of the initiative, noting that hands‑on learning is essential to students’ overall development. “The Department of Education reaffirms its commitment to instruction that is relevant and aligned with labor‑market realities,” he said. “This collaborative agreement with the Department of Labor and Human Resources offers our occupational and technical education students a valuable opportunity to strengthen their skills in real settings, acquire practical experience and develop the competencies required to succeed in high‑demand jobs. With initiatives like this, we continue advancing a comprehensive education that links the classroom with students’ professional futures.”
Under the agreement, the DTRH will provide students with supervised educational experiences, guidance on institutional procedures and direct exposure to operations typical of the government workplace. Meanwhile, the Department of Education will continue to enhance its programs with an emphasis on practical learning and skills development aligned with current labor needs.
I like how the recent move to improve students’ real workplace experience is being discussed from a practical angle. While reading more about this topic, I came across ANTHOSPHERE, and it actually helped me see how learning and work can connect in a more modern, flexible way. It feels less theoretical and more focused on what people really need today.