Leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc (PLDT) and its wireless subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc (Smart) are joining forces with US technology company Cisco in the digital upskilling of Filipino students to help them gear up for the jobs of the future.
PLDT, Smart and Cisco are collaborating to expand the reach of Cisco Networking Academy to partner with schools under the Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program (SWEEP). Run by Smart for the past 20 years, SWEEP is the first and longest-running Philippine industry-academe linkage program in the country.
The digital upskilling collaboration was announced by PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan and Dave West, President for Cisco Asia Pacific, Japan, and Greater China (APJC) at the recent PLDT and Cisco Innovation Day. It aims to help shape industry-ready graduates to meet the growing demand for technology talent across multiple sectors of the economy. Through this initiative, tertiary-level learners will be able to access free Cisco Networking Academy materials related to IT-essential courses, helping them build core skills in the area.
“As technology and innovation drive fast-paced change, it is imperative for us at the PLDT Group to work with like-minded partners like Cisco and the academe in ensuring that our country is able to produce industry-ready graduates who are able to meet the demands of the jobs of the future,” Pangilinan said.
“Partnering with PLDT and Smart is not just about the digital upskilling of individuals; it’s about empowering an entire generation with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive in the digital age. By providing access to essential IT courses through Cisco Networking Academy, we’re not only shaping industry-ready graduates but also fostering a culture of lifelong learning and innovation. Together, we. are bridging the gap between education and industry, ensuring that the Philippines remains competitive in the global digital economy,” said Dave West, president of Cisco, Asia Pacific, Japan, and Greater China.
Through the years, the PLDT Group has underscored the value of inclusive learning and industry-academe linkages like SWEEP, particularly to promote STEM education in the country. This commitment also supports UNSDG #4: Quality Education and can help narrow the digital divide by creating more STEM experts and upskilling more Filipinos toward jobs of the future.