PLDT, Smart, University of Baguio to promote engineering excellence

PLDT Inc and its wireless unit, Smart Communications, Inc. recently joined University of Baguio (UB) during its annual tripartite collaboration. This will further enhance existing curriculum of programmes in College of Engineering.

“Under Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program (SWEEP), the first and longest running industry academy linkage programme, we continue to promote a culture of innovation and excelling by extending learning opportunities to students and faculty,” says Stephanie V. Orlino, assistant vice president and head of stakeholder management team at PLDT and Smart.

This initiative brought together partners from academy and private sector, specifically those in technology industry, and aimed to align current engineering program with recent technological trends, and to enhance linkage between academy and industry.

“We acknowledge the contribution of the industry reaching out to and partnering with the academy. Under this collaboration, we have extended our expertise in the field of wireless telecommunications and technologies, which aim to add value to what UB currently has,” says Hope Mamucud, senior core network supervisor at PLDT and Smart.

“We currently offer a Technopreneurship subject in the School of Engineering and Architecture that requires our students to create prototypes and explore innovations. We also have Robotics incorporating Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in our curriculum. With PLDT and Smart extending their technical expertise, we can further improve these subjects under this partnership,” says Annalyn D. Soria, engineer, MACT, UB Faculty.

“I chose to take Electronics Engineering so I could learn more about the current and upcoming trends in technology. I also believe through technology and innovation, I can contribute to addressing the waste management challenges in our community,” says John Reynald Garcia, a UB electronics engineering student.

“Trainings extended under SWEEP can help us gain knowledge in technology and enables us to become familiar with advanced innovation and equipment available. This can eventually add value to our academic and professional development,” adds John.

Since 2003, PLDT and Smart have supporting colleges and universities all over Philippines through SWEEP (smart wireless engineering education programme). The programme underscores PLDT Group’s commitment to creation and digital inclusion, and support government’s digitalisation efforts, by promoting industry academy linkage. PLDT Group is a founding member of digital infrastructure pillar of presidential Private Sector Advisory Council or PSAC.

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