TEN universities will receive over P80 million grant from Accenture Philippines to boost their technology programs.

The grant will finance programs focusing on emerging technologies, sustainability and inclusion, and diversity efforts.

“By supporting on-campus labs and incubators that are embarking on initiatives to accelerate the use of new technologies, develop more sustainable business practices, and foster a more inclusive culture in the technology field, we are helping to nurture the next generation of Filipino technologists that will solve complex business and social challenges in the future,” said Accenture Technology Philippines managing director Ambe Tierro.

Under the agreement, Accenture will sponsor the emerging technologies of the universities including the advancement of blockchain innovation and solution, 5G, and cloud.

Among the schools that will receive the grants are the University of the Philippines, Adamson University, Technological Institute of the Philippines, Asian Institute of Management, Ateneo de Manila University, University of Santo Tomas, and Far Eastern University-Institute of Technology.

Accenture is also collaborating with the De La Salle University’s Animo Labs Foundation Inc. to create cross-industry monitoring to assist sustainability in the Philippines and developing countries.

Likewise, the firm will support the College of St. Benilde to develop a user experience design and delivery solutions for people with disabilities.

The company will also promote technology entrepreneurs and businesses among female high school students at Miriam College’s Technology Business Incubator.

“This grant program helps build the foundation on which our universities and academic institutions can further develop Filipino technology talent to look ahead to the future and solve pressing challenges using advanced technologies,” Accenture Technology in the Philippines innovation lead Arvin Yanson said.

“With the accelerated pace of innovation today, we’re proud to help inspire and motivate our youth to take on this opportunity to learn, experiment and test ideas, and support them as they do it over and over again,” he added.