Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence arm of Alibaba Group, has partnered with De La Salle University (DLSU), one of the Philippines’ top academic institutions, to enhance student access to advanced artificial intelligence and cloud computing technologies. This collaboration underscores Alibaba Cloud’s commitment to bridging the country’s talent gap in emerging tech fields.
Tackling the AI talent shortage in the Philippines
This initiative is part of the Alibaba Cloud Academic Empowerment Program (AAEP), which is designed to provide DLSU students and faculty with specialized training, certifications, and practical learning in AI and cloud computing.
The Philippine Institute of Development Studies (蝌蚪传媒) has highlighted a notable shortage in skilled professionals in AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity, emphasizing the need for ongoing talent development.
“With AI and cloud computing reshaping industries and unlocking new opportunities, our partnership with Alibaba Cloud is a step toward preparing our students to become key contributors to the nation’s economic and technological progress,” said Shirley Chu, Assistant Dean for External Affairs and Lasallian Mission at DLSU’s College of Computer Studies. “This collaboration offers our students the skills and experience they need to succeed in these vital sectors.”
Supporting the future of AI and cloud experts
Through AAEP, Alibaba Cloud works closely with accredited institutions to equip students, faculty, and researchers with essential resources. DLSU students and educators will benefit from access to industry-aligned courses, interactive lab experiences, and opportunities to earn recognized Alibaba Cloud certifications.
“Alibaba Cloud is committed to bringing digital intelligence to educational institutions in the Philippines through our empowerment program,” said Allen Guo, General Manager for the Philippines at Alibaba Cloud Intelligence. “We are proud to partner with DLSU, an institution known for its strong focus on technology. This collaboration supports our broader mission of preparing a digitally skilled workforce to meet the changing demands of the job market.”
Comprehensive training for digital skills development
The partnership offers a variety of training sessions aimed at students from computer science and other disciplines. The program officially launched in April 2025 with an initial session called AI Learning Journey. This session introduced participants to the fundamentals of AI along with Alibaba Cloud’s AI platforms, services, and solutions.
The next session, scheduled for June 2025, will concentrate on practical applications of cloud computing. Students will participate in hands-on labs that focus on cloud deployment and infrastructure management, offering valuable experience for those looking to build technical skills in implementation.
In addition, participants will have ongoing access to public online lectures from the Alibaba Cloud Academy, covering topics in AI and cloud computing. These learning resources aim to provide both foundational theory and real-world practice, helping students thrive in a fast-evolving tech environment.
Building toward a digitally skilled future
This partnership represents a key move in Alibaba Cloud’s efforts to develop a digitally capable workforce in the Philippines and internationally, addressing critical gaps in AI and cloud talent.
The Alibaba Cloud Academy, which leads the company’s training and certification efforts, offers more than 250 online and in-person certification courses, along with over 270 interactive labs in 19 languages. Globally, the academy has trained over 500,000 individuals and established partnerships with more than 110 universities and institutions across 23 countries and regions.
