The journey of a migrant worker is rarely easy. Leaving loved ones behind, adapting to a new culture, and navigating unfamiliar environments can be daunting, especially when an individual feels unprepared. Recognizing this gap, the Fair Training Center (FTC) emerged to transform and professionalize domestic worker training.

 

The Problem: Unpreparedness Breeds Vulnerability

Each year, thousands of Filipino migrant workers, particularly domestic workers, set out on their overseas journey are often ill-equipped and unprepared for the challenges that lie ahead. High termination rates, especially among first-timers, is an all-too common story. These workers who are burdened by excessive training fees and pressured to secure new employment quickly become vulnerable to exploitation. The root cause? Inadequate training that fails to equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to match the expectations of their employers.

 

The Solution: A Curriculum Built on Empowerment

Established in 2016, the FTC changed the way how pre-migration preparation is conducted with its new and creative training program. And the results speak for themselves: termination rates plummet to below 10% for their trainees, compared to the industry average of 30 to 40%. Their success can be traced to these key principles:

  • Having results-focused training

  • Being current and relevant

  • Ensuring replicable excellence

 

Beyond Domestic Work: Expanding the Vision

FTC doesn't just focus on domestic work but also partners with industries like hospitality and maritime to train Filipino migrant workers. They've adapted to COVID-19 by using blended learning, reaching more workers at lower costs. Recently, WorkAbroad visited FTC and spoke with its leaders, impressed by their dedication to helping Filipino migrant workers and their effective training methods. Both FTC and WorkAbroad aim to empower migrant workers and create a future where they are treated fairly and provided with better opportunities to help them succeed.