Examining the Relationship Between Industry Partnerships and Job Readiness in Vocational Programs

This study examined the relationship between industry partnerships and job readiness among vocational program learners in Arakan North, Division of Cotabato. Specifically, it assessed the extent of industry partnerships in terms of duration, type of involvement, quality, and frequency of engagement, as well as the level of job readiness based on employability skills, student satisfaction, career aspirations, and academic performance. Utilizing a descriptive-correlational research design, the study gathered responses from 134 vocational teachers using validated survey instruments. Results revealed that industry partnerships were perceived as very extensive across all dimensions, particularly in type of involvement (M = 4.41) and quality of engagement (M = 4.37). Similarly, job readiness was rated very extensively, with academic performance (M = 4.57) being the most prominent indicator. A significant positive correlation (r = 0.406, p < .001) was found between industry partnerships and job readiness. Regression analysis further identified the quality and frequency of industry engagement as significant predictors of job readiness. The study underscores the importance of sustained, meaningful industry collaborations in enhancing vocational training outcomes and recommends strengthening partnership frameworks to align education with labor market demands further.