Bitskwela, Sonic Labs teach practical blockchain uses in universities

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Filipino blockchain education technology (edutech) platform Bitskwela has partnered with Sonic Labs to teach practical blockchain applications in universities. 

Bitskwela sees the country’s growing focus on blockchain. However, many students lack a proper understanding of its practical uses. 

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Consequently, the edutech platform launched the Blockchain Student Alliance, which received support from Sonic Labs, a decentralized app (dapp) platform.

The program equips students with practical skills through Sonic University, an educational initiative designed to simplify blockchain concepts and help more developers and users understand them. 

Ultimately, it aims to empower individuals to explore opportunities and build careers in the rapidly growing blockchain industry.

Bitskwela CEO Jiro Reyes and BSA leader Andrea Pilapil have conducted workshops for more than 500 students from October to November 2024.

Their blockchain education reached the following universities:

• Mapua University in Intramuros
• Manila Central University
• Tangos National High School
• University of Southeastern Philippines
• University of the Cordilleras

Pilapil explained one of the project’s biggest challenges was teaching non-tech students about blockchain’s potential.

“Blockchain is often limited to tech students, while non-tech students miss out on the wider potential of blockchain applications […] such as its use in fields like supply chains, healthcare, and even voting systems,” she said.

For his part, University of Southeastern Philippines instructor Hermoso Tupas Jr. emphasized the importance of blockchain education for students as the “innovators of tomorrow.” 

Moreover, Pilapil believes universities should adopt blockchain education into their curricula.

Bitskwela also sees huge potential for expanding blockchain education programs in schools. 

For example, it could create research and innovation hubs, host blockchain hackathons, and integrate blockchain modules into non-tech courses. 

The edutech company aims to continue the BSA tour in 2025, providing more hands-on workshops and interactive activities.

These could further connect students with industry leaders and offer greater exposure to the blockchain ecosystem.