The Australian Government and the Government of the Philippines have officially launched the Education Quality for Inclusive Prosperity (EQUIP) program in the Philippines, marking a significant milestone in the longstanding Australia–Philippines partnership in education.
Funded by the Australian Government and implemented by DT Global, EQUIP is a five-year program supported by an initial investment of AUD40 million (approximately ₱1.6 billion) to strengthen the quality, accessibility, and industry relevance of Senior High School education in the Philippines.
Working in close partnership with the Department of Education, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), schools, and industry partners, the program will pilot innovative approaches to strengthen teaching of 21st-century skills, enhance career guidance, expand school-industry partnerships, improve workplace immersions, and increase access to nationally recognised skills certifications.
Launched at Mariano Marcos Memorial High School in Manila—one of EQUIP's pilot schools—the event brought together government leaders, educators, students, industry representatives, and development partners to reaffirm a shared commitment to strengthening senior high school education and preparing young Filipinos for the future of work.
Australian Foreign Minister Senator the Hon. Penny Wong joined Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, TESDA Director General Secretary Jose Francisco "Kiko" Benitez, and Australian Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Marc Innes-Brown in officially launching the program.
"One of the best parts of my job is meeting young people and hearing their hopes and ambitions for the future. Through EQUIP, Australia is partnering with the Philippines to help ensure young people have the skills and opportunities to achieve those ambitions," said Minister Wong.
The launch featured a choir, folk dancers, and rondalla musicians composed of high school students enrolled in a special arts program. The program also included the signing of a commitment wall by senior government officials, school representatives, and partners – symbolising their commitment to the program's vision.
For students at Mariano Marcos Memorial High School, the launch reflected a shared commitment to expanding opportunities through quality education.
"It was truly inspiring to see government leaders and partners come together to support quality education and create better learning opportunities for young Filipino students. We are grateful to witness the launch of EQUIP at our school," shared a student during the launch.
Over five years, EQUIP will work with Australian and local partners to strengthen senior high school education through evidence-based approaches – informing policy and strengthen education systems at both the national and local levels.
DT Global is proud to implement EQUIP in partnership with the Australian Government, the Government of the Philippines, and education stakeholders across the country as we work together to build a stronger, more inclusive, and future-ready secondary education system.
Ready for the world. Resilient for the future. Together, we EQUIP.
