The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) launched the U.S.-Philippines Partnership for Skills Innovation and Lifelong Learning (UPSKILL) Program in February 2024. This five-year, $30 million initiative is designed to enhance the competitiveness of Philippine higher education institutions (HEIs) by focusing on workforce development, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
According to Ms. Loida Dumaguin, a representative of USAID, during her visit to CITE on November 26, 2024, the program does not provide direct funding but offers technical assistance through initiatives such as faculty development programs, including cybersecurity training for educators. Although research and development (R&D) funding is not a primary feature, UPSKILL supports curriculum development and technological innovation efforts that align with workforce skills improvement.
UPSKILL partners with organizations like PBEd, Edukasyon.ph, and U.S. counterparts, extending its reach to technical-vocational education and training (TVET) institutions.
The program aligns with the Philippine Digital Workforce Competitiveness Act and the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act, which aim to address labor challenges and improve workforce readiness, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Additionally, UPSKILL encourages exploration in emerging fields such as green skills and civil engineering to meet the evolving demands of the global workforce.