iPeople, Inc., the education ecosystem of the Yuchengco Group of Companies-Ayala Corporation partnership, is targeting 200,000 AI-fluent learners by 2029 as it expands artificial intelligence education across its network of schools.
Leading the initiative is the Mapúa Education Group, comprising Mapúa University, Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna, Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao, and Mapúa Malayan Digital College. The program builds on Mapúa’s recently launched group-wide AI-Fluency Strategy, which aims to embed practical, ethical, and discipline-specific AI skills across its education ecosystem.
From AI literacy to AI fluency
Mapúa’s approach goes beyond teaching students how to use AI tools. An AI-fluent learner is expected to critically evaluate AI outputs for bias and hallucinations, protect data privacy, and apply human judgment when solving complex problems.
The framework covers four levels: foundational AI literacy, specialized field application, AI-enabled applied problem-solving, and advanced AI and research pathways.
The university plans to redesign curricula across engineering, computing, business, health, and design, while introducing stackable microcredentials for students, professionals, and lifelong learners.
It will also establish AI teaching commons that provide faculty members with AI-ready rubrics, ethical guidelines, and instructional support.
Partnerships expand AI capabilities
To support the initiative, the Mapúa Education Group has established partnerships with technology companies including OpenAI and Altair, as well as Arizona State University.
These partnerships are intended to strengthen access to AI technologies, computational intelligence, innovation expertise, and industry-aligned learning resources.
Dr. Marloun Sejera, Head of Mapúa University’s Office for Artificial Intelligence Curriculum Integration, said the 2029 target provides the institution with a structured period to undertake curriculum redesign, faculty development, microcredentialing, and workforce-aligned partnerships.
“Our goal is not simply to teach software tools, but to cultivate long-term human-AI collaboration across evolving careers,” Sejera said.
Preparing Filipino talent for an AI-driven economy
Mapúa said the initiative responds to concerns over AI-driven changes in the labor market, particularly the vulnerability of young Filipino workers who may lack advanced digital capabilities and workplace experience.
By developing AI skills alongside human oversight and ethical decision-making, the university aims to prepare graduates for technology-driven careers and help address the Philippines’ digital skills gap.
The institution also expects the deployment of 200,000 AI-fluent learners and professionals into the workforce to create a multiplier effect across businesses, research institutions, and government organizations.
“By equipping learners with real-world AI capabilities alongside strong human oversight, we are supplying Philippine industries with the future-ready talent needed to compete globally,” Sejera said.
