In line with its unwavering dedication to advancing a Digital Philippines, Google has unveiled a range of initiatives designed to facilitate skills development in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and bolster the country’s startup ecosystem. The technology giant has introduced three (03) new career-focused certificates to prepare individuals for lucrative digital careers.
Empowering Individuals with AI Skills
Google Cloud has introduced no-cost generative AI skills development courses under its Cloud Skills Boost Program. These courses are aimed at making careers in generative AI more accessible to Filipinos. As part of this learning path, participants can delve into topics such as Introduction to Generative AI, Large Language Models, and Responsible AI, equipping them with sought-after AI skills that can be showcased to potential employers.
Supporting AI-Driven Startups
The tech company is also extending its support to seed to early-stage startups (Series A startups) in the Philippines that utilize AI as a fundamental technology in developing their products or solutions. Through the Google for AI Startups Cloud Program, eligible startups can gain access to crucial cloud credits worth up to US$350,000 over a two-year period. The program further offers startups valuable access to AI experts, training resources, and networking opportunities. Interested startups can inquire and apply through the program’s dedicated portal.
Expanding Career Opportunities with New Certificates
To empower the Filipino workforce with essential digital skills, Google has introduced three additional courses as part of its Google Career Certificates program. These professional credentials enable individuals from diverse backgrounds to acquire job-ready skills in high-growth digital fields such as IT Support, UX Design, eCommerce, and Digital Marketing.
In 2022, Google pledged to provide 39,000 Google Career Certificate scholarships, targeting underserved communities to help them acquire digital skills and earn industry-recognized certificates. Today, Google announced the allocation of an additional 1,000 scholarships this year, in collaboration with stakeholders including the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and partner non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
The Google Career Certificates program has already made a significant impact in the Philippines, with over 6,000 graduates in the country. More than 80% of these graduates have reported positive career outcomes, such as securing jobs, promotions, or salary increases within six months of completing their certificates.
Addressing the Digital Skills Gap
A new study, conducted by The Economist Impact in partnership with Google, underscores the growing importance of digital upskilling among Filipino employees to remain competitive in the job market. Key findings from the study include:
- Self-management skills, including stress tolerance, resilience, and flexibility, are considered crucial by 68% of employees, closely followed by digital skills, rated as important by 52%.
- Within digital skills, IT Support (65.4%), data analysis and visualization (55.8%), and cybersecurity (59.6%) are identified as essential capabilities by employees. Furthermore, 42% prioritize AI and ML (machine learning) skills, surpassing the regional average of 33%.
- Effective government collaboration with companies, organizations, and communities is crucial in creating an inclusive skilling ecosystem, offering incentives and supportive policies to promote equitable access to skills development.
The Road Ahead
According to the eConomy 2022 report, the tech sector in the Philippines is poised for rapid growth, with the digital economy estimated to reach a value of US$150 billion in the next decade. This substantial expansion will necessitate a diverse set of skills in the labor market. The IT-BPM Association of the Philippines anticipates the creation of 1.1 million new jobs by 2028, including 150,000 developer roles to be filled within the next six years.
“Google is a committed partner of the country in helping build a Digital Philippines. Through our technology, skilling programs, and partnerships, we will continue to help unleash the potential of the digital economy and empower the workforce of the future,” according to Bernadette Nacario, Country Director of Google Philippines, affirming the company’s commitment to the country’s digital transformation.