The Mapúa Education Group has officially launched its Co-Intelligence AI Strategy, an initiative that blends human creativity and critical thinking with artificial intelligence (AI). The strategy aims to prepare students, faculty, and staff for a future where AI is part of everyday learning and work.

The launch event was held at the Mapúa University Makati campus, led by University President and CEO Dr. Dodjie S. Maestrecampo, together with leaders from the group’s network: Mapúa University, Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (MCL), Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao (MCM), and Mapúa Malayan Digital College (MMDC).

What “co-intelligence” means

According to Dr. Maestrecampo, “AI is no longer optional—it’s reshaping industries, skills, and education.” He explained that Mapúa’s Co-Intelligence framework focuses on three areas:

• Learning with AI: Using AI tools to improve teaching, research, and operations.
• Learning about AI: Embedding AI literacy and critical thinking across all programs.
• Working with AI: Training faculty, staff, and professionals to use AI effectively and responsibly.

How it works

The Co-Intelligence strategy introduces several initiatives across Mapúa schools:

• AI-Infused Curriculum – AI is integrated into course design, from objectives to assessments, to strengthen real-world skills.
• Embedded AI Courses – All students, regardless of program, gain basic AI and critical thinking skills.
• Faculty & Staff Upskilling – Professional development programs focus on AI knowledge and tools.
• Experiential Learning – Students join projects and industry-linked experiences that let them apply AI in real-world contexts.

The group also emphasizes responsible AI use—teaching students and staff to evaluate AI critically, uphold ethical standards, and balance technology with human creativity and empathy.

AI in action across Mapúa Campuses

Each Mapúa school is already piloting AI-driven tools:

• MCM: MyPÚA, an AI tutor that creates practice exams, checks performance, and analyzes results.
• MCL: The PathBuilder, which builds personalized learning paths for students.
• MMDC: Learner’s Assistant, an AI-powered helpdesk for 24/7 student support.

First in the Philippines: BS in AI Engineering

Alongside the launch, Mapúa University announced the country’s first Bachelor of Science in AI Engineering, to be offered at its Manila campus.

The program covers machine learning, deep learning, robotics, natural language processing, and AI applications. It also integrates ethics, social responsibility, and sustainability into its curriculum.

Dean Dr. Arnold Paglinawan explained that the course is aligned with the Philippine Skills Framework for Analytics and AI and is designed to meet the growing demand for AI engineers. Students will take on projects addressing local challenges such as disaster response, agriculture, healthcare, and language technology.

“This is not just a new degree,” Dr. Paglinawan said. “It’s about building the future of AI engineering in the Philippines—one student at a time.”

Graduates can pursue careers as AI Engineers, Machine Learning Engineers, Data Engineers, Research Scientists, and AI Solutions Architects, among others.

Preparing for the future of work

Guest speaker Rowena Subido, First Senior Vice President and Head of Human Resources at RCBC, highlighted how AI is transforming the workplace. She noted that over 50% of jobs in the Philippines may be disrupted or reshaped by AI, but emphasized that upskilling and reskilling are the keys to staying relevant.

“AI will only replace your job if you don’t have the skills. If you do, then AI becomes a tool that empowers you,” Subido said. She welcomed Mapúa’s new BS in AI Engineering, calling it a timely step in preparing talent for the country’s industries.

A commitment to future-ready education

With the Co-Intelligence AI Strategy and the pioneering BS in AI Engineering, the Mapúa Education Group is positioning itself as a leader in preparing Filipinos for an AI-driven future—where human ingenuity and technology work hand in hand.

To explore and learn more about the Mapúa Education Group Co-Intelligence and how the AI initiative is integrated in the curriculum, visit its schools’ websites:

• Mapúa University: www.mapua.edu.ph
• Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna: mcl.edu.ph
• Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao: mcm.edu.ph
• Mapúa Malayan Digital College: mmdc.mcl.edu.ph

This is a press release. Edits have been made by the 8List.ph editorial team.