The online learning platform Coursera, Inc. has released its 2024 Learner Trends report, revealing a significant 21 percent year-over-year growth in its Filipino user base. With over 2.5 million registered learners, Filipinos continue to demonstrate a strong commitment to upskilling, driven by the evolving demands of the global workforce.
Two standout trends for 2024 include an explosion in interest in generative AI (GenAI) and a shift towards job-specific training. The surge in GenAI learning is particularly notable, with enrollments spiking nine times compared to the previous year. Popular courses like Google AI Essentials and Generative AI for Everyone have become essential for professionals aiming to stay ahead in an increasingly AI-driven job market. In fact, someone in the Philippines enrolled in GenAI content every 15 minutes in 2024, reflecting its importance across industries.
The rise in AI skills aligns with broader trends highlighted by Microsoft’s Work Trend Index 2024, where 70 percent of Filipino employers said they would not hire candidates lacking AI proficiency. In response, Filipino learners have embraced a wide array of skills, including digital marketing, project management, and data analytics, in addition to core technical competencies. Notably, courses focused on personal development, such as Learning How to Learn, also saw growing interest.
Raghav Gupta, managing director of Coursera Asia Pacific, commented, “Filipino learners are actively shaping the future of work, with GenAI and job-aligned skills helping them stay competitive in a rapidly changing global market.”
Coursera’s preliminary 2025 Job Skills Report further emphasizes this trend, revealing that communication skills, GenAI expertise, and risk management are among the top priorities for Filipino professionals. As businesses continue to upskill employees in line with global workforce needs, the demand for AI literacy is expected to accelerate into 2025.
Top Courses in the Philippines (2024)
- Foundations: Data, Data, Everywhere (Google)
- Foundations of Digital Marketing and E-commerce (Google)
- Google AI Essentials (Google)
- Foundations of Project Management (Google)
- Foundations of Cybersecurity (Google)
Top GenAI Courses in the Philippines (2024)
- Google AI Essentials (Google)
- Introduction to Generative AI (Google Cloud)
- Generative AI for Everyone (DeepLearning.AI)
- Generative AI with Large Language Models (Amazon Web Services)
- Generative AI: Prompt Engineering Basics (IBM)
