HEIs to receive data science, analytics training for post-COVID-19 era

The Commission on Higher Education and Mapua University will be providing the country’s higher education institutions (HEIs) with data science and analytics skills for the post-COVID-19 era.

In a statement, the CHED said that the training would be delivered through a Carnegie Mellon University - Australia (CMUA) executive program. CMUA is a global leader in data analytics.

The 10-day virtual training will combine comprehensive business intelligence, data analytics, and technology management curriculum with a hands-on focus.

A total of 60 participants from 45 higher education institutions nationwide will be taught by CMUA’s faculty.

Aside from the virtual training, participants will also be developing asynchronous data analytics modules with localized applications that will cascade the training to other Philippine higher education institutions.

“This partnership between Mapua and CMUA is very timely not only to improve efficiency in the operations of HEIs using data science but also build upon our efforts to create smart campuses and continue flexible learning in the post-COVID era,” CHED chairman Prospero de Vera said.

CMUA head Professor Emil Bolongaita said this initiative will also empower Philippine educators and play a part in helping the country recover from both the public health and economic crisis that COVID-19 had created.

“The Philippines is being tested like never before and while it's difficult to imagine, the pandemic will come to pass. We want to make sure that educators are ready for this and that the workforce more broadly is upskilled,” Bolongaita said.

The project was among the 11 programs that were lodged under the CHED’s International Continuing Professional grants which funds international certificate programs and short courses for Philippine higher education institution faculty and staff to develop and advance the country’s higher education. — DVM, GMA News