The Department of Trade and Industry Region 4-A (DTI Region 4-A) teamed up with Google Philippines to launch the simultaneous hybrid set-up DTI x Google Career Certificate Program (GCCP) to provide digital training and reskilling initiatives to Filipinos.
The DTI and Google Philippines seek to develop a digitally skilled workforce. The program attracted 97,500 applications with 833 endorsements from the region. Through the GCCP, 5,778 learners were equipped with enhanced digital skills, resulting in 22,084 enrollments.
“This year, Google Philippines has provided us with 25,000 Coursera licenses to be distributed to 16 regions in the country starting this May until December. Around 1,356 Negosyo Centers have been tapped as learning centers to organize 50 virtual campuses,” DTI-Regional Operations Group (ROG) assistant secretary Grace Baluyan said.
The event was attended by 300 virtual and 500 in-person participants. The main program was followed by the signing of certificate of commitment for the scholars in attendance.
Scholars will have the opportunity to earn certifications in six key digital domains such as data analytics, user experience design, project management, IT support/IT automation, digital marketing and e-commerce and cybersecurity—all at no cost.
The program can be completed in three to six months of about 10 hours study per week. Upon successful completion, scholars also have a chance to gain employment through the DTI E-Commerce Office Partners.
“This will serve as an opportunity for our micro, small, and medium enterprises and their employees to advance their career by obtaining a competitive Google credential and to modernize their business practices,” said DTI Region 4-A assistant regional director Revelyn Cortez.
She said individuals including women, out-of-school youth, persons with disabilities, senior citizens and those who are unemployed or underemployed can join the program.