FIVE HUNDRED graduating students of the university are currently taking take the Global Competitiveness Assessment Tool (GCAT).

Initiated by the Business Processing Association/Philippines (BPA/P), the GCAT aims to generate ready talents for the country’s outsourcing industries.

The online test measures the students’ competencies along learning ability, language proficiency, perceptual speed and accuracy, and computer literacy as well as their service orientation.

“We are thankful to the BPA/P for giving us 500 slots for free,” said Dr. Marlina Lino, coordinator of the university’s Project C4. The test normally costs Php500 for each candidate. The slots are allocated to the various colleges based on enrolment.

According to Lino, taking the GCAT will minimize the time and effort the students would need in taking screening tests in various BPO companies.

After taking the test, the students’ competency profile will be visible to about 250 BPA/P corporate members. Their application will be given top priority, thereby shortening the time it would take for them to gain employment.

Prior to the conduct of the GCAT, graduating students from the different colleges attended the Information Technology-Business Process Outsourcing Industry Awareness Seminar.

The seminar, initiated by Project C4, aims to create students’ awareness of the growing IT-BPO sector and the careers and improved lifestyles in the industry.

Separate sessions were held at the University Training Center, University Function Hall, CAS Media Center, CTE Social Hall, and Laboratory High School Gymnasium on Nov. 17-18.

Speakers were Mr. Jaime Andrada of DSM Manila LLC, Ms. Malaya Padilla of Strategic Training Solutions, and Ms. Judelyn Cruz of Sutherland Global Services.

Andrada, who belongs to DSM’s learning and development division, is a master trainer for the AdEPT Program. Padilla, who used to be a contact center professional, leads a team of corporate trainers who provide specialized trainings for professionals and prospective applicants in various industries. Cruz, who used to head the province’s investment office, is associate manager of Sutherland’s Laoag Recruitment Office.

“Attending the seminar was an eye-opener. It made me realize the many lucrative opportunities for us in the BPO industry,” Stella Gaspar, graduating AB English Studies student, said. “It was also fun listening and participating in the discussions.”