Makati City, Philippines—On August 01, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has signed a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Education (DepEd) and Thames International School to introduce a specialized Senior High School E-commerce Track.

From L to R: DepEd Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, DTI Secretary Fred Pascual, Thames International School Co-founder and President Jaime Noel Santos

This track will provide students with skills in e-commerce, covering topics such as online marketing, digital product development, and customer service. The program will also foster an entrepreneurial mindset, encouraging students to think creatively and innovatively.

This initiative is a significant step towards aligning education with the demands of the rapidly growing digital economy. Recognizing the pivotal role of e-commerce in the global marketplace, DTI Secretary Fred Pascual underscored the importance of preparing students with the necessary skills to thrive in this dynamic landscape.

“This collaboration to launch the e-commerce track for senior high school students is a testament to our shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of Filipino entrepreneurs and digital leaders. The DTI has consistently prioritized equipping Filipinos with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy,” said the trade chief.

The E-commerce Track was developed in partnership with Thames International School, a leading provider of business education in the Philippines. Meanwhile, DepEd will oversee the integration of the track into the Senior High School curriculum to ensure its alignment with national educational standards.

Set to launch in the upcoming school year, the program will be piloted in 15 senior high schools in the National Capital Region, with plans for future nationwide expansion.

This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision for a future-ready education system. It also reinforces the DTI’s commitment to empowering Filipinos with digital skills through programs such as the Pivot Embrace Technology (PET) Project and Oplan TLC.

The DTI, DepEd, and Thames International School are confident that the E-commerce Track will not only enhance the skills and knowledge of Filipino students but also contribute to the development of a more robust and competitive e-commerce ecosystem in the Philippines. ♦

Date of release: 01 August 2024