More skilled workers needed in software, IT industries, expert says

by Consuelo Marquez | June 10, 2021

Software development and the information technology industry continues to grow amid the COVID-19 pandemic and needs more workers with the necessary skills, an industry leader has said.

In a webinar series hosted by Makati-based iAcademy, Philippine Software Industry Association president Jonathan Luzuriaga said there was a disconnect between the academe and the industry resulting in a mismatch among graduates and jobs.

“Despite the challenges brought by the pandemic, the IT industry is still growing and we need more people to be educated in the newer things that are being applied in the SD and IT industry so that we can continue this growth pattern,” Jonathan Luzuriaga, PSIA President.

Luzuriaga said the following jobs would be in demand both during and after the pandemic:

• Digital marketing
• Project management skills
• Data analysis
• IT support
• Web and app design and development
• Cyber security
• Risk management
• AI and machine learning
• Process automation

The skills needed are the following:

• Communication skills
• Interpersonal skills - able to work w teams
• Analytical thinking
• Leadership skills
• Conflict resolution
• Problem solving skills
• Integrity

Luzuriaga said there should be more conversations and partnerships to solve the disconnect between the education sector and the industry.

"We encourage more of this, conversations and partnerships like this so academe and industry can stop pointing fingers," Luzuriaga said.

Mitch Andaya, dean for school of computing and vice president for planning and accreditation, cited that iACADEMY has its Program Advisory Council to review and continuously improve its curriculum to address the gap.

"iACADEMY  joined PSIA to stay in touch with the industry to know and understand how we can meet the requirements of the industry. This has always been the thrust and strength of iACADEMY, our emphasis on industry aligned curriculum,” said Andaya.