Driving Innovation and Empowering Education with AI
The Embassy of Switzerland in the Philippines, in collaboration with SwissCham Philippines, hosted a breakfast meeting to delve into AI’s transformative role in research, innovation, and education. As part of the 2024 Swiss Innovation Prize Competition, the session emphasized how AI can address challenges in workforce development and advance key sectors.
In her opening remarks, Céline Fürst, Chargé d’affaires, a.i. of the Swiss Embassy noted the vibrant tech and education sectors of the Philippines, and sharing Switzerland’s commitment to ensuring AI serves humanity by promoting transparency, fairness, and human rights.
Department of Education Assistant Secretary Roger Masapol opened the discussions by outlining the government’s initiatives to modernize education through AI integration. He highlighted AI’s potential to streamline administrative tasks, enabling teachers to focus more on student engagement, and detailed strategies such as decentralizing decision-making, leveraging public-private partnerships to build classrooms, and advancing digitalization efforts. With 92% of schools now connected to the internet and partnerships with organizations like Khan Academy and Canva, the government aims to create a more connected and accountable education system.
Kent Primor, Head of Economic and Trade Advisory at the Swiss Embassy, encouraged SwissCham member companies to collaborate with DepEd and bring industry expertise to the education sector. He emphasized that active engagement from the Swiss business community can bridge gaps between education and industry, preparing students with the skills needed for an AI-driven future.
Panel discussion, moderated by IT-BPM Innovation Cluster Chairperson Rosario Cajucom-Bradbury, underscored AI’s potential to reshape education and the workforce. Partners Group President Neva Santos spoke on AI’s ability to enhance productivity globally while underscoring the competitive advantages of Filipino talent. AI technologist Dominic Ligot echoed the need to expand AI literacy programs beyond STEM fields to foster inclusive innovation. Meanwhile, TESDA Executive Director El Cid Castillo shared ongoing efforts to integrate digital literacy and ethical AI practices into workforce training, positioning the Philippines as a regional leader in AI development.
The open forum further explored inclusivity in AI implementation, curriculum integration, and solutions for underserved communities. Participants emphasized the importance of public-private collaboration, robust infrastructure, and forward-thinking policies to ensure AI’s benefits reach all sectors. SwissCham Philippines encourages business and industry leaders to be a driving force behind initiatives that shape the future, fostering impactful partnerships to advance education, spark innovation, and champion sustainable development.
