The Philippine Government is taking significant strides in digital transformation, supported by the expertise of The University of Adelaide. Five key Philippine Government agencies are partaking in two specialised short courses funded by the Australian Government through the Australia Awards and Alumni Engagement Program – Philippines (AAAEP-P). These courses aim to boost the skills and capacity needed for rapid digital transformation, which will be critical for the Philippine workforce of the future.
The inaugural course, ‘Digital Transformation Strategy Development and Implementation,’ began in January 2024. Its first module is a benchmarking study to Australia during which Filipino officials will meet counterparts at State and Federal agencies involved in digitalising government services. Thereafter, officials from the participating Philippine Government agencies will attend the second module on developing digital and data competencies for Filipino civil servants.
A follow-up course on digitalisation is scheduled in Manila this February in collaboration with Asia Pacific College.
Professional and Continuing Education are delivering the two short courses at the University of Adelaide, which specialise in implementing workforce training, development and credentials that help organisations respond to current and emerging industry and business trends.
Dr Jessica Gallagher, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (External Engagement) at The University of Adelaide, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration.
“Our history of delivering transformative workplace training positions us uniquely to assist individuals and organisations in adapting to and thriving in the evolving work landscape,” Dr Gallagher commented.
“We are excited to extend our expertise to the Philippines through the prestigious Australia Awards, known for their significant global impact. It’s an honour to contribute to the Philippines’ public sector’s digital transformation journey,” she said.
Participants from the Civil Service Commission, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Budget and Management, Department of Information and Communications Technology, and the National Economic and Development Authority are currently in Australia. Their visit includes intensive training workshops at the University of Adelaide, visits to Australian Government agencies for digital transformation insights, and participation in diplomatic and cultural events.
The Honourable Karlo B. Nograles, Chair of the Philippines Civil Service Commission, expressed strong enthusiasm for the transformative potential these learning engagements offer.
“The training and insights provided by the University of Adelaide are invaluable as we navigate the complexities of digital transformation. The courses offered under the AAAEP-P are perfectly aligned with our national priorities to modernise government services. We are confident that this initiative will significantly contribute to our ongoing efforts to foster a digitally empowered public sector and a more vibrant digital economy in the Philippines,” he said.
The AAAEP-P is an eight-year program of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that aims to support the Philippines in progressing its development goals and have positive relationships with Australia that advance mutual interests. The University of Adelaide is one of several Australian universities providing learning opportunities to Filipinos through the AAAEP-P.
Each year, through Professional and Continuing Education at the University of Adelaide, thousands of individuals and hundreds of organisations access lifelong learning through public and customised education and workforce offerings.
Dr Gallagher suggested that the University of Adelaide was uniquely placed to develop transformative workforce solutions targeting emerging skills.
“Through our Professional and Continuing Education unit, we harness cutting-edge research and industry insights, drawing upon the profound impact and knowledge of distinguished academics and industry leaders. Our commitment to rigorous educational standards and the creation of unique academic pathways ensures an enriching journey of learning and advancement at the University,” Gallagher said.
The delegation was welcomed to Adelaide with a special reception at Government House, hosted by Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, among other dignitaries, including the Philippine Honorary Consul, Ms Carmen Garcia.
Ms Garcia said, “I am so proud and excited to see that our world-renowned University of Adelaide is taking the lead in supporting the Philippines to navigate digital transformation and play a pivotal role in activating our strategic partnership”.
For more information about AAAEP-P, visit australiaawardsphilippines.org, and for more information about Professional and Continuing Education, visit adelaide.edu.au/pace/.
