Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has signed a three-year strategic partnership with the University of the Philippines (UP) designed to prepare Filipino students to become leaders in the AI-driven global economy.
The comprehensive agreement establishes collaboration frameworks across critical technology domains, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, cloud computing infrastructure, cybersecurity, smart manufacturing and digital business transformation.
The partnership will directly benefit UP students, especially those in the Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electronics Engineering and Business Administration programs.
“This collaboration represents more than skills development. It’s about creating a sustainable pipeline of Filipino technology leaders,” said Dennis Anthony Uy, Converge chief executive and co-founder. “Through strategic partnerships like this, we can ensure that Filipino talent not only competes globally but drives innovation domestically.”
UP president Angelo Jimenez said the alliance stands at the “threshold of transformation where academic aspiration meets industrial innovation, where scholarly pursuit embraces technological achievement.”
The partnership will unfold through a three-phase approach, beginning with exploratory initiatives and expanding to deeper integration by 2026.
Phase One launches the “Future Forward Management Trainee Program,” a nine-month pilot targeting graduating students with intensive training in artificial intelligence, product development and digital technology. The program addresses the critical gap between academic learning and industry application that has long challenged Philippine higher education.
The partnership’s international dimension leverages Converge’s strategic relationships with technology leaders, giving UP students access to best practices that align with global benchmarks in digitalization and competitiveness, while maintaining strong foundations in Filipino values and innovation.
The UP-Converge cooperation establishes a new paradigm for Philippine higher education, demonstrating how universities can maintain academic rigor while embracing industry collaboration. The agreement includes specific provisions ensuring academic integrity and institutional mission alignment while fostering innovation and practical application.
“This represents the future of Philippine higher education,” Uy said. “When academic excellence meets industry innovation, we create opportunities that serve both student success and national development.”
The three-year agreement includes annual review mechanisms and extension possibilities, allowing both institutions to adapt and expand their collaboration based on emerging opportunities and changing technological landscapes.
