by Jan Michael Carpo, Reporter
Largely propelled by an increase in online learning dedicated to Artificial Intelligence, the landscape of the Filipino workforce is currently undergoing a transformative shift. With the push for digital proficiency heightening, Filipinos are actively seeking to equip themselves with the essential skills needed to thrive in an AI-powered future.
This trend is exemplified by Coursera, a leading online education platform, which has reported a substantial 21% growth in Filipino learners in 2024, indicating a growing urgency to close the artificial intelligence proficiency gap.
Every 15 minutes, a new Filipino is signing up for an AI course on Coursera, underscoring the prevalent demand for artificial intelligence education. More notably, there’s been a staggering ninefold increase in enrollments for GenAI courses, including popular offerings such as “Generative AI: Introduction and Applications,” “Google AI Essentials,” and “Generative AI for Everyone.”
Raghav Gupta, Coursera’s General Director for Asia-Pacific, remarked, “The soaring demand for GenAI courses by Filipino learners on Coursera underscores their resilience and forward-thinking spirit needed to thrive in a world driven by rapid technological shifts. It speaks volumes about the Filipino workforce’s readiness to embrace the future of work. As GenAI becomes increasingly integrated into workplace operations, it’s crucial for employees to have a strong foundation in the principles of artificial intelligence.”
AI becoming a part of evolving demands in PH job market
This proactive approach aligns seamlessly with the evolving demands of the Philippine job market. The Microsoft Work Trend Index 2024 reveals that skills in artificial intelligence have emerged as the top priority for Filipino recruitment managers since the pandemic began.
Alarmingly, 70% of businesses are now rejecting applicants who lack proficiency in artificial intelligence application, while 68% express a preference for younger candidates who possess experience over more seasoned professionals without it.
This stark reality highlights the critical need for both emerging and established talent to adapt to the digital age.
The impetus to acquire skills in artificial intelligence transcends recruitment trends, reflecting a broader recognition of its transformative potential across various sectors.
According to Coursera data, learners are also enrolling in courses related to digital marketing, data foundations, user experience design, technical support, and cybersecurity. This well-rounded approach indicates a desire to not only grasp artificial intelligence skills but also leverage its capabilities to enhance existing skillsets.
Groundbreaking initiatives to empower individuals
Earlier this year, Coursera announced groundbreaking initiatives aimed at empowering individuals and institutions with essential GenAI skills.
At the forefront of these efforts is the launch of seven new GenAI courses and specializations, including certificates in software development and marketing, designed to meet the burgeoning demand for specific expertise in artificial intelligence.
Notably, the initiative is timely, as an AWS report highlighted that employers in the ASEAN region are willing to pay 36% more for workers with skills in artificial intelligence.
Additionally, Coursera’s GenAI Academy, created to equip executives and employees with essential skills, features partnerships with leading institutions, such as Microsoft and Stanford Online. This reflects a strategic alignment to support the claims that advanced digital skills like cloud architecture can add an estimated US$6.3 trillion annually to the global GDP.
The implications for the Philippines are profound. As applications capable of generating instant images, text, and videos become more prevalent, understanding these technologies is vital for staying competitive. The move towards acquiring generative AI skills not only fosters individual career growth but also strengthens the country’s economic landscape.
“With over 2 million global enrollments and approximately 13,000 from the Philippines, this year has seen a 642% year-over-year increase for GenAI courses,” Gupta stated. “This surge indicates the resilience and forward-thinking mindset of Filipino learners, equipping them to excel in a landscape marked by rapid technological shifts.”
Through their proactive embrace of artificial intelligence, Filipinos are positioning themselves as valuable assets in the workforce, paving the way toward a more competitive and innovative economy.
As Coursera continues to enhance online education, the future looks bright for both individuals and the economy at large, suggesting that the Philippines is ready to harness the full potential of the artificial intelligence revolution.
