CEBU CITY— There is a rapid increase in the demand for lifelong learning opportunities in the Philippines and this requires appropriate technology and infrastructure, the 2025 State of Higher Education — Philippines report revealed.
The survey was conducted by Times Higher Education and
Instructure to 107 educators from higher education institutions and 312
students nationwide. It is the leading
learning ecosystem and maker of Canvas, the learning management system (LMS)
used by top-ranked universities worldwide and leading local universities, such
as De La Salle University, University of Santo Tomas, and Ateneo de Manila
University.
“We are seeing a demand for adaptable learning paths that align with the needs of working professionals, and educational institutions must evolve to meet these demands. The growing focus on lifelong learning is a direct response to the fast pace of change in both the job market and technology. This shift is crucial in ensuring students are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive throughout their careers,” Managing Director for APAC at Instructure, Harrison Kelly said.
The report found that 83 percent of educators in the country consider lifelong learning a strategic priority for their institutions and 93 percent of surveyed educators in the country agreed that increased support, along with the right technology and infrastructure are needed to significantly ease the implementation of lifelong learning initiatives.
The report also revealed that 80 percent of students believe their current course will improve their future earning potential, with 88 percent of educators and students confident that higher education equips students with the skills needed for employment.
The survey said that with 83 percent of institutions supporting students in non-traditional learning environments, and educators recognizing lifelong learning as a strategic priority, hybrid learning models, blending face-to-face and online education are becoming more prevalent to accommodate diverse learning needs.
The report found that while 66 percent of students still favor face-to-face learning, nearly half or 42 percent are leaning toward hybrid models, reflecting a demand for flexibility. For hybrid learning to be effective, the report said, investment in digital infrastructure is crucial to ensure learning remains accessible and resilient to disruptions, such as natural disasters and other environmental or social challenges.
The report also highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education, with 71 percent of educators using AI to create learning materials, 65 percent leveraging it for designing quizzes and assignments, and 56 percent incorporating AI to personalize learning experiences.
Students also embrace AI tools, with 81 percent believing AI can help them save time and 63 percent of them primarily use AI for text generation; 58 percent for translating text; 62 percent for enhancing and editing their writing; 55 percent to help explain concepts they don't fully understand and 52 percent for summarizing relevant articles.
Kelly said that as the Philippines continues to
adapt to the demands of the 21st century, its focus on lifelong learning and
flexible education pathways promises to empower students and educators alike,
equipping them with the tools to thrive in a rapidly changing world. (Photos/data: Uniquecorn Strategies/Deniz Zulueta)
