PH enrollment in generative AI courses faster vs. global average

Enrollment of Filipinos in generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) courses on online learning platform Coursera grew by 383% in the past year to outpace the average growth in Asia Pacific and across the globe, results of its latest Global Skills Report showed.

According to the report released by the New York-listed education provider, GenAI enrollment in the Philippines outpaced the Asia Pacific average of 132%, and the global average of 195%, reflecting the country's adoption of emerging technologies.

"Aligning with national goals to train 1 million AI-skilled workers by 2028, these trends are critical for enhancing competitiveness, as 86% of Filipino knowledge workers already use AI at work—well above global and regional averages," the report read.

Jumps were also seen in enrollment in courses involving cybersecurity which climbed 53%, professional certificates up 23%, and critical thinking up 10%.

The Philippines was ranked 60th out of 80 countries in Coursera's AI maturity Index, the platform's comparative analysis of global AI readiness which takes into account AI learning, research, and innovation.

"The Philippines is laying the foundation for a digitally confident workforce. AI is a clear priority for employers and learners are stepping up by acquiring GenAI skills and industry micro-credentials to stay ahead," Coursera Asia Pacific head Eklavya Bhave said in a separate statement.

"From AI strategies to forward-thinking education policies, we're seeing a strong national commitment to equipping Filipinos with the right mix of technical, business, and human skills," he added.

The latest report ranked the Philippines 18th in Asia Pacific, and 88th out of 109 countries across the globe in terms of overall skills proficiency, with 2.7 million Coursera learners.

The Global Skills Report took into account data from 170 million Coursera learners from March 2024 to February 2025. The ranking is based on learner proficiency across 274 skills in business, technology, and data science.

"With 67% of employers highlighting skill gaps and 68% of employees requiring reskilling by 2030, formal credentials and targeted upskilling programs have become essential," the report read.

"Employers plan to redeploy nearly three in 10 workers into new roles following reskilling efforts," it added.

Top learners skills in the country are software development life cycle, digital content, IT infrastructure, campaign management, application lifecycle management, content marketing, process analysis, system software, social media strategy, and Google Workplace. — VDV, GMA Integrated News