The Philippines' leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc (PLDT) and its wireless subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc (Smart) recently hosted engineering students from Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU) at the PLDT and Smart Technolab in Makati City, strengthening the partnership between the organizations under the Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program (SWEEP).

The delegation, a mix of second to fourth year Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) students, gained relevant knowledge based on actual industry practice from experts from Smart during their educational tour at the Technolab. The Technolab serves as a facility for the exploration and testing of new and upcoming network technologies and solutions, such as 6G, Passive Optical Network (PON) next generation technologies, and cloudification technologies, along with other future innovations like fully autonomous networks and next-generation fixed and wireless communication systems, all designed to enhance connectivity, efficiency, and overall customer experience.

Russel Bon Torio, a second year BS ECE student at BPSU, was among the participants of the tour. "I was really fascinated by the XR (extended reality) and MR (mixed reality) technologies. This experience has really taught me that hands-on learning and learning by experience are just as important as learning from textbooks," he said. "While schools may experience budget and equipment limitations, collaborations with companies like Smart are key in enabling students with access to these tools."

Accompanying Russel and his classmates was Engr Carmel Joy Aberin, licensed electronics engineer and electronics technician and instructor at BPSU. "Teaching concepts with real-world examples makes for a more impactful learning experience, which are important for students' personal and academic growth," she said. "Learning in school may be limited but providing them with access to facilities like the Technolab and its technologies can be eye-opening. Future engineers need this sort of inspiration so they can innovate in the future."

Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Management Team at PLDT and Smart, emphasized the importance of strengthening industry-academe linkages in future-proofing tomorrow's workforce. "Through our long-standing partnerships under the SWEEP program, we continue to support the youth's aspirations to shape their own future careers through technology, ultimately serving their families, communities, the country and the world."

Underscoring the value of promoting STEM education in the country, this activity is also part of PLDT Group's broader initiatives for inclusive learning that help the country achieve UN SDG No. 4: Quality Education. This also strengthens the Group's standing as a premier workplace in the country and is in line with the Company’s purpose to inspire innovation and meaningful connections.