Integrated telco network PLDT Inc. and its wireless subsidiary Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) are partnering with US technology company Cisco to enhance the skills of Filipino students.
PLDT, Smart, and Cisco aim to expand the reach of the Cisco Networking Academy by collaborating with schools involved in the Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program (SWEEP). This program, run by Smart for the past 20 years, is the first and longest-running industry-academe linkage initiative in the Philippines.
“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,” said Manuel V. Pangilinan, chair and CEO, PLDT.
The collaboration focuses on shaping industry-ready graduates to meet the increasing demand for technology talent across various sectors. Tertiary-level students will gain access to free Cisco Networking Academy materials related to essential IT courses, equipping them with core skills.
“By providing access to essential IT courses through Cisco Networking Academy, we are not only shaping industry-ready graduates but also fostering a culture of lifelong learning and innovation,” said Dave West, president of Cisco, Asia Pacific, Japan, and Greater China. “Together, we are bridging the gap between education and industry, ensuring that the Philippines remains competitive in the global digital economy.”