17/08/2026
𝐊𝐎𝐈𝐂𝐀 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐂𝐓 𝐇𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐞𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲
The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) conducted a monitoring visit and on-site inspection from 10 to 11 August 2026 to assess the progress and achievements of the “Information and Communication Technology Training Program for Youth and Vulnerable Groups in Dumaguete, Philippines.”
Implemented by the Hannam University Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation in partnership with Silliman University, the project represents an investment of approximately USD 0.48 million to strengthen ICT human resource development and contribute to building a digital-ready workforce in the region.
The project established the KOICA Digital Transformation (DX) Center at Silliman University, equipped with 241 ICT equipment units to support the ICT training. The project provides specialized vocational training in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data analytics for university students, unemployed youth and vulnerable groups, as well as ICT instructors and professors of universities with a broader goal of promoting ICT employment opportunities and supporting local economic development.
Led by KOICA Philippines Country Director Mr. JUNG Youngsun, the delegation conducted courtesy meetings with local government officials at Dumaguete City Hall to discuss the project’s progress, achievements, and sustainability. Hon. Manuel Chaco Sagarbarria, Governor of Negros Oriental, and Hon. Manuel Chiquiting Sagarbarria, Mayor of Dumaguete City, reaffirmed the local government's support for the project and explored opportunities to sustain its contributions to digital transformation in the region.
The KOICA delegation likewise held discussions with key representatives of Silliman University and key partners within the project, including TEVEC (Technical Educational Vocational and Entrepreneurial Center) and TESDA Negros Oriental. The discussions focused on the project’s overall achievements as well as measures to ensure its sustainability beyond the project period.
The monitoring visit highlighted significant achievements in strengthening ICT education and employment opportunities in the region. As of date, 38 youth and vulnerable individuals completed Track 1, with 17 securing employment; 36 university students completed advanced AI training; and 19 local instructors were trained under the Training of Trainers (ToT) program.
As the project is expected to be completed this year, KOICA will continue to support efforts to strengthen the project’s outcomes and promote the sustainable development of local ICT human resources. KOICA remains committed to supporting the Philippines in harnessing digital technologies to strengthen ICT capacity and to expand opportunities for the youth and contribute to inclusive economic growth.