Written By: Aileen Joy Basug and Ace Lordhene Cabato
The University of Baguio (UB) has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative, launching its first-ever micro-credential program seamlessly integrated into its Accountancy curriculum. This pioneering move, developed in collaboration with East West International Educational Specialists, aims to significantly enhance the employability and professional readiness of its graduates, starting with the Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSAc) students under the School of Business Administration and Accountancy (SBAA).
This transformative program directly addresses the critical need for advanced Microsoft Excel proficiency in today’s data-driven professional landscape. In the dynamic field of accountancy, proficiency in Microsoft Excel is no longer just an advantage but a fundamental necessity. It serves as a cornerstone for analytical work, and efficient data management, which are indispensable for aspiring CPAs.
The first batch of students to benefit from this embedded micro-credential are the Accountancy students from Mr. Pakias’s “Auditing in a CIS Environment” class for the School Year 2024-2025. These students underwent a rigorous training designed to build and solidify their Excel expertise. The learning journey involved initial guided exercises on essential functions and formulas, followed by intensive, timed training modules that simulate real-world scenarios. Students received immediate feedback, enabling them to identify errors and pinpoint areas for improvement, fostering a self-paced yet highly effective learning environment.
The culmination of the program is the Microsoft Office Specialist Excel (Microsoft 365 Apps) Examination. Upon successful completion and achieving the required score for the Excel Associate certification, students earn a verifiable digital badge. This badge serves as a powerful testament to their competence, readily displayable on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn and Credly. This offers a distinctive edge to future employers, providing tangible proof of their skills development and readiness for industry demands.
This innovative approach directly aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education. By focusing on enhanced learning outcomes and cultivating industry-relevant skills, UB ensures its graduates are not only academically proficient but also possess the practical competencies demanded by the modern workforce.
Moreover, this initiative also supports SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by equipping students with the essential digital skills that are highly valued in the industry which will enable them to secure decent jobs with better career prospects. It promotes sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth by enhancing workforce productivity and creating opportunities for meaning full employment. Through this program, UB is actively contributing to economic development and help build a resilient workforce prepared for the challenges and opportunities of our evolving economy.
This micro-credential stands as a testament to the University of Baguio’s commitment to equipping students with future-ready skills that drive them toward successful careers. It sets a new benchmark for skills development in higher education, ensuring that graduates remain competitive and well-prepared for their chosen professions.
