The US Agency for International Development (USAID) is set to launch a $30-million initiative called the US-Philippines Partnership for Skills Innovation and Lifelong Learning (UPSKILL) program. This program aims to strengthen the higher education system in the country over a span of five years. Working closely with the Commission on Higher Education and state universities, USAID aims to enhance the capacity of higher education institutions in the Philippines for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) is actively involved in supporting the UPSKILL program, as one of its key focuses is on innovation. NEDA serves as the secretariat of the National Innovation Council, a policy advisory body chaired by the President that addresses innovation matters. By collaborating with USAID, NEDA aims to foster a culture of innovation within the higher education system.
UPSKILL will involve various strategies to strengthen higher education institutions. One of these strategies includes training faculty and staff to enhance their skills in innovation and entrepreneurship. Additionally, curriculums will be improved to align with industry needs, and technology transfers will be increased to ensure that the latest advancements are incorporated into the educational system.
Partnerships between academia and the private sector will also be established under the UPSKILL program. These partnerships will enable higher education institutions to provide education and skills training that are relevant to the needs of various industries. By bridging the gap between academia and the private sector, UPSKILL aims to create a workforce that is equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute to the country’s economic growth.
Furthermore, UPSKILL supports improvements in higher education governance. By enhancing the governance of higher education institutions, the program aims to create a more efficient and effective system that can adapt to the changing needs of students and industries. A stronger higher education system is expected to result in a larger pool of innovators, which will ultimately benefit the economy.
The NEDA recognizes the importance of research and development efforts in promoting innovation in the country. As part of its initiatives, the NEDA is pushing for a scholarship program that aims to achieve a target of 500 researchers per million population by 2028. This program will contribute to the development of a highly skilled workforce that can drive innovation in various sectors.
In addition, the NEDA sees the need to establish a knowledge management system for research and development outputs in the country. This system will make research findings easily accessible to market players, encouraging collaboration and the application of research in practical settings. By facilitating the dissemination of knowledge, the NEDA aims to create an environment that fosters innovation and drives economic growth.
The UPSKILL program and the initiatives supported by the NEDA are crucial steps toward strengthening the higher education system in the Philippines. By investing in innovation and entrepreneurship, the country can create a skilled workforce that is capable of driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for its citizens. Through partnerships and collaborations, the UPSKILL program aims to create a sustainable and thriving higher education system that meets the needs of both students and industries.
Source: https://www.usaid.gov/
