Manila, Philippines — QBO Innovation, the Philippines’ first public-private initiative geared towards providing a platform for the startup community to collaborate, develop, and grow, has launched Step Juan: Young Technopreneurs in Training. In partnership with the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines and American Spaces Philippines, the program is designed to empower Filipino youth towards Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and innovation.
The Step Juan program is designed to provide high school and university students with limited exposure to startup initiatives with accessible, beginner-friendly learning opportunities in entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation.
The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) reported little interest in STEM in young Filipinos. Recognizing the need to address this gap, the Step Juan program aims to foster interest in STEM fields and equip students with essential skills for real-world applications.
The Step Juan program features a curriculum designed to inspire young innovators. It includes: Innovation and Technopreneurship Fundamentals using QBO's BASIQS program, which provides interactive talks by QBO faculty for aspiring entrepreneurs; Technopreneurship Training for Teachers; and Collaborative Learning and Co-Facilitation. These activities aim to ignite curiosity and enhance critical thinking to future-proof young technopreneurs as well as onboard professors and educators to effectively champion STEM within their schools.
Currently, the program is partnering with the University of Makati (UMak) and Maximo Estrella Senior High School for Cycle 1 to provide insights and training to its educators about startup methodologies, problem-solving, and business innovation, preparing them to champion technopreneurship in the classroom. Plans for Cycle 2 and 3 will continue throughout the year with other cities in the NCR.
QBO Innovation, a leader in fostering entrepreneurship, reaffirms its commitment to nurturing young talent through Step Juan. QBO Executive Director Alwyn Rosel emphasizes the importance of collaboration between schools and industries, highlighting Step Juan as a vital bridge.
