There has been a recent shift in focus among employers when it comes to choosing potential candidates. More companies from various sectors are now prioritizing skills and competency assessment when hiring, posing a challenge to higher education institutions (HEIs) to keep up with the changing industry standards.

In its commitment to mold future-ready graduates, STI College leverages its partnerships with industry leaders to ensure that students have access to hands-on training, and its curriculum and programs stay on par with the demands of the employment market.

Notably, STI’s collaboration with top tech companies in the Philippines has bolstered its Information Technology (IT) programs. Through its partnership with tech giant Huawei, STI was able to integrate Huawei’s learning platform on its 63 campuses all over the country, producing thousands of certified IT student associates across technology domains such as artificial intelligence, and cloud computing and storage, among others.

Since 2015, STI and Huawei have worked together to enhance the institution’s IT curriculum, course development, and instructor training, and innovate classrooms and laboratories through technology, among other initiatives. Last year, STI was among the recipients of the prestigious Excellent Global Talent Alliance Partner award from Huawei.

STI also inked a partnership with Globe Telecom that will provide internship opportunities for IT and engineering students, setting them up for job prospects at one of the country’s leading mobile network companies. The program will address the emerging skills gap in the IT sector through intensive training and immerse students within the work environment.

“Collaborating with industry players is essential to provide our students with a holistic, real-world education that effectively prepares them for their career paths,” said Karen Precious LR. Tabije, STI VP for Academics. “This also ensures that our academic programs align with the demands of the job market, offering invaluable opportunities for internships and/or project-based learning that enhance students’ practical skills and employability.”

Beyond tech, STI boosted its ties within the hospitality industry through its landmark partnership with Carnival Cruise Line (CCL), one of the biggest cruise lines in the world. Aside from full scholarship grants, the partnership also provided a cutting-edge kitchen laboratory situated at the STI Academic Center Pasay-EDSA where students can receive hands-on training and familiarize themselves with the actual set-up onboard.

This synergy between STI and CCL has opened numerous opportunities for Hospitality Management students to gain hands-on experience as culinary apprentices and apply their skills in a real-world environment. It will also help connect them with a vast network of hospitality professionals.

STI’s collaboration with industry partners highlights its commitment to nurturing students through immersive education and practical experiences. Along with initiatives like I-CARES and E2E (Enrollment to Employment) system, STI ensures that students are not only academically excellent but are also equipped to thrive in the real world.

STI and Carnival Cruise Line (CCL) Partnership opened opportunities such as full scholarship grants, a cutting-edge kitchen laboratory, hands-on training as culinary apprentices, and access to a robust network of hospitality professionals.