EMBASSIES AT WORKSPECIALS

Swiss Embassy launches 'Day of the Future'

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Nov 14, 2023 11:27 AM

  

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Switzerland's Day of the Future in the Philippines:  The Day of the Future is a special annual occasion in Switzerland  that embodies the spirit of collaboration, education, and inspiration,  bridging  the gap between the classroom and the workplace, offering the youth a glimpse into the endless possibilities that await them in the professional world. The pioneer launch of Switzerland's Day of the Future in the Philippines , organized by the Embassy of Switzerland in the Philippines held a press conference on November 9, 2023  at the BDO Equitable Building in Makati and supported by various Swiss companies in the Philippines. Photo shows Swiss Embassy's officials together with some of the participating companies represented by their executives. (L-R) Swiss Embassy's Deputy Head of Mission Celine Fürst,  Marketing and Partnerships Manager of Impact Acoustic Ally Sabiaga, DepEd OIC for  International Cooperation Office (ICO), Project Development Officer  on External Partnership Frederick OrticioCountry Manager of Endress + Hauser Frank Konstanzer,  APAC Managing Director of ERNI Pavo Kohler, Swiss Ambassador Dr. Nicolas Brühl, , Country President of Novartis Joel Chong, General Manager of Roche Diana Edralin,  Managing Director of SGS Crecensiano Meramot  and   Chief Sustainability Officer of Holcim Philippines Zoe Sibala.

The Embassy of Switzerland in Manila, for the first time, introduced "Day of the Future" in the Philippines last Nov. 9 at the BDO Equitable Building in Makati. In his remarks, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Nicolas Brühl shared that "Day of the Future" is a yearly event that celebrates the spirit of collaboration, education, and inspiration in order to bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace. It gives young people a chance to see what is in store for them in their future professional careers. .

Panelist during the 'Day of the Future' press conference held in Makati on Nov. 9, 2023.

"Today, we spotlight the importance of breaking gender stereotypes in the workplace. Diversity is a fundamental asset in any society, and it is crucial to remove any barriers that limit opportunities for any gender. This is a very important characteristic of Switzerland's work environment. We encourage both young men and women to explore diverse career choices, and we believe in a future where everyone has the freedom to pursue their dreams without discrimination," Amb. Brühl explained.

Embassy of Switzerland in the Philippines H.E. Amb. Dr. Nicolas BrühlDeputy Head of Mission Celine Fürst

"Day Of The Future," which was held in partnership with the Department of Education, International Cooperation Office, and the Swiss Cultural Fund Philippines, let Filipino high school students participate in a one-day work immersion program. This gave them insights into possible career opportunities beyond the more traditional professions. More than 200 students from Manila, as well as other parts of the Philippines, participated this year. The participating Swiss companies included Roche, Novartis, Endress + Hauser, ERNI, Ivoclar Vivadent, SGS, Holcim, Impact Acoustic, and Nestle.

DepEd OIC for International Cooperation Office (ICO), Project Development Officer on External Partnership Frederick OrticioDiana Edralin, Roche's general managerSGS Managing Director Crecensiano MeramotFrank Konstanzer, country manager of Endress + HauserHolcim Philippines Chief Sustainability Officer Zoe SibalaERNI's APAC Managing Director Pavo Kohler

For its part, the Swiss Embassy hosted 15 students from Makati High School, and gave them a chance to experience what embassy work involves. Although this was the first time "Day of the Future" was brought to the Philippines, the Swiss Embassy's Deputy Head of Mission Celine Furst said they look forward to holding the event annually.

Amb. H.E. Dr. Nicolas Brühl (center) together with the Embassy "apprentice" students from Makati High School joined by their school officials and Swiss Embassy officials, which included Deputy Head of Mission Celine Fürst, Head of Economic and Trade Advisory Kent Marjun Primor, and Communications Officer Sofia Santelices.

Amb. Brühl said Switzerland has a long-standing tradition of valuing education, with dedication to vocational training as one of the hallmarks of their system. "We believe in empowering students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving world," he explained. "The strong connection between our education system and industry allows our youth to explore various career choices, thus promoting a holistic approach to personal development and career fulfillment, which is why we wanted to introduce this tradition here to young Filipinos."

Source
https://mb.com.ph/2023/11/13/swiss-embassy-launches-day-of-the-future#google_vignette