DepEd hails CSC policy granting state jobs to K-12 grads

The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday expressed strong support for the Civil Service Commission’s (CSC) latest move allowing Junior High School (JHS) and Senior High School (SHS) graduates to qualify for first-level positions in government.

Through Resolution No. 2500229, issued on March 6, the CSC formally recognized Grade 10 and Grade 12 completers under the K to 12 program as eligible for clerical, trades, crafts, and custodial service positions in the public sector. The move aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to boost the employability of basic education graduates and address persistent job mismatch.

“We thank the CSC for this landmark decision. It not only opens new doors for our learners but also boosts the government’s talent pool with fresh, young professionals trained under our K-12 system,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said in a statement.

DepEd welcomed the revision of qualification standards, which now includes roles suited for structured and sub-professional work, especially relevant for graduates of the Technical-Vocational-Livelihood track in SHS.

Angara emphasized that the CSC’s resolution validates the promise of the K-12 curriculum and reinforces public confidence in its effectiveness.

“For years, our SHS students have been trained to be work-ready, but policy gaps kept them from entering the public sector. This reform finally bridges that divide,” he said.

Under the new policy, qualified JHS and SHS graduates may apply for entry-level government roles once they meet the specific requirements, such as relevant experience, training, and eligibility credentials necessary for appointment.