DAVAO CITY — The city government of Cagayan de Oro sent fifteen (15) out-of-school youth to undergo six months training on artificial intelligence and software development.
City Mayor Rolando Uy on Monday, February 20, 2023, presented the first batch of OSY who will be trained by the Skunk Works, an information technology business process outsourcing (BPO) company based in Cagayan de Oro City.
Addressing himself to the youth, Uy stressed “No school or college in the city that offers artificial intelligence yet. that’s why you are blessed that you are the chosen 15. The city government will give you a free uniform, food and fare allowances.”
Given the support, Uy told the trainees “There is no more reason for you to not pursue this education.”
Thor Turrecha, Executive Vice President of Global SaaS MeldCX and lead AI trainer for Skunk Work said that currently in the country, AI development program is a 4-year course and that what the short-term course they offer is the first in the country.
Skunk Work’s mother company MeldCX is based in Australia, but they have offices in the United States, the United Kingdom.
Turreacha committed that after graduation, they will give their students the employment opportunity “There is no point that we will teach them something they cannot earn from,” Turrecha said.
The city government plans to establish a city college within the year to enroll more out-of-school youth.- Eugene Hinutan
