Online short courses an avenue for upskilling

Job skills mismatch is a problem that’s currently plaguing jobseekers in the country.

A recent study by the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) together with private companies called the Philippine Talent Map Initiative found that three out of 10 young job seekers lack essential soft skills to be employed.

The need to upskill, however, is not just confined to job seekers. While most companies have training programs, those who are currently employed would do well to add to their current credentials to help them move up the ranks.

This is where online short courses help.

“Unlike a degree or post-graduate program that have educational attainment requirements, short courses do not have the same stringent requirements. They give anyone the chance to learn a specific subject matter that they are personally interested in or need for their job,” said Josephine Casin, a technical course professor at AMA University Online Education (AMA OEd), a platform that offers online short courses.

Another upside of taking an online short course is what it adds to a resume.

“Aside from the skill and the knowledge, you also get a certificate that proves you have the capability that comes with the short course—an additional credential to your resume that can help get you promoted at work,” added Leohernard Quitaleg, head of content development for AMA OEd.

AMA OEd cites foreign language proficiency, mastery of software and management skills foundation as among the online short courses available for workers who need to upgrade their skills. /