TESDA Launches Free AI and Digital Skills Courses Through e-TESDA Platform

TESDA is offering free online courses in AI, entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, communication and digital skills through e-TESDA, in partnership with UNESCO-UNEVOC and HP Foundation.
Category: Skill Development / TVET / Digital Learning
Source: The Manila Times
Date: May 30, 2026

TESDA expands access to AI, entrepreneurship and digital skills training

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has announced the availability of free online courses in artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship and other digital skills to support Filipinos in preparing for the fast-changing future of work.

The initiative has been introduced in partnership with UNESCO-UNEVOC and the HP Foundation, with the objective of expanding public access to flexible, technology-driven and future-ready learning opportunities. The courses are being offered through TESDA’s online learning platform, e-TESDA, allowing learners to study remotely and at their own pace.

TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez said the initiative is designed to help Filipinos remain competitive and adaptable as industries continue to move toward technology-enabled operations.

“As industries continue to transform through technology and innovation, it is important that Filipinos are equipped with the skills needed to remain competitive and adaptable in the future of work. Using e-TESDA, we can further expand access to quality training,” Benitez said.

More than 30 HP LIFE courses integrated into e-TESDA

Under the initiative, more than 30 courses from the HP LIFE Program have been integrated into the TESDA Online Program. These courses cover key areas such as artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, marketing, communication, finance and business operations.

The AI course focuses on the responsible use of artificial intelligence and its practical applications in workplaces and businesses. This is significant as AI literacy is becoming an essential skill across industries, including education, services, manufacturing, entrepreneurship and digital business operations.

By combining digital learning with entrepreneurship and workplace readiness, TESDA aims to provide learners with practical knowledge that can support employment, self-employment and career advancement.

Courses open to learners without strict academic requirements

TESDA said that most of the courses do not require a college degree, prior work experience or specific educational attainment. This makes the initiative accessible to a wide range of learners, including students, jobseekers, workers, entrepreneurs and individuals looking to upgrade their digital capabilities.

To access the courses, learners need a valid email address, internet connection and a device such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer.

Interested learners are required to create an account on the TESDA Online Program platform. After completing the registration process, users must verify their account through an activation link sent to their email. Once activated, learners can browse available courses and enroll directly through the platform.

Strengthening digital inclusion and lifelong learning

The launch of free AI and digital skills courses reflects the growing importance of digital inclusion, lifelong learning and accessible technical-vocational education in the modern workforce. As businesses and industries increasingly adopt digital tools, workers need continuous upskilling to remain relevant and productive.

For the Philippines, the initiative also supports broader workforce development goals by making high-demand digital and business skills available to more citizens through online learning. It is expected to benefit learners in urban and remote areas by reducing barriers related to cost, location and formal qualification requirements.

TESDA’s collaboration with UNESCO-UNEVOC and the HP Foundation also highlights the role of public-private and international partnerships in strengthening technical and vocational education and training systems.

Why this matters for the skills ecosystem

The initiative is particularly relevant at a time when artificial intelligence, automation and digital transformation are reshaping job roles across sectors. Free and flexible learning opportunities can help workers, young professionals and entrepreneurs build practical skills for the future economy.

By offering AI, entrepreneurship and digital skills training through e-TESDA, the agency is promoting a more inclusive approach to workforce development. The program not only supports employability but also encourages learners to develop business, communication and problem-solving capabilities needed in technology-driven workplaces.

Key Highlights

How to Enroll

Learners can register on the TESDA Online Program platform by creating an account using a valid email address. After completing the registration details, users must activate their account through the verification link sent via email. Once the account is verified, learners can browse the available courses and enroll online.

Conclusion

TESDA’s free AI and digital skills courses mark an important step toward making future-ready education more accessible to Filipinos. With growing demand for digital competence across industries, the initiative can support learners in improving employability, strengthening entrepreneurial capabilities and adapting to the changing world of work.

The program also reinforces the value of online technical-vocational education as a practical pathway for inclusive skill development, workforce readiness and lifelong learning.

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