Switzerland’s government has brought to the Philippines its very own “Day of the Future” tradition, allowing Filipino high school students to participate in a one-day work immersion program in Swiss companies based in the country.

More than 200 students from various parts of the Philippines, mostly in Metro Manila, joined the event and gained insights into possible career opportunities beyond traditional professions.

Among the Swiss firms that opened their doors to the students were Roche, Novartis, Endress + Hauser, ERNI, Ivoclar Vivadent, SGS, Holcim, Impact Acoustic, and Nestle.

The Swiss Embassy in Manila also hosted 15 students from Makati High School and gave them a peek at what embassy work entails from public diplomacy to consular affairs.

“We’re learning a lot and it’s really giving me different perspectives of how I’m going to choose what (course) I’m going to take in the future,” Makati High School student Maron James Nicolas said while touring the embassy. “Personally, I’m really planning on taking architecture.”

This is the first time the Swiss Embassy in Manila is staging the Day of the Future event in the Philippines but Deputy Head of Mission Celine Furst said they look forward to holding the program annually.

In a press briefing, Swiss Ambassador to the Philippines Nicolas 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 said.

“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.”

The event was held in partnership with the Department of Education and the Swiss Cultural Fund Philippines. (PNA)