The foundation for a strong STEM education system is intrinsically tied to scientific and technological advancement. STEM education applies real world lessons to the classrooms so students can make the connections to the world they're in. Countries with leading STEM graduates, also have helped shaped the world we all live in; the software we use for work, apps on our phones to communicate with each other and devices in our homes.

Unfortunately, the challenges of STEM education and opportunities in the Philippines are apparent - low quality of education resulting in relatively low number of STEM graduates, critical lack of qualified and mature STEM educators, lean job opportunities for STEM graduates, and lack of facilities that support student learning. All of which, however, present a major opportunity for transformational change by developing the capacity of STEM individuals and institutions for boosting STEM engagement in the country.

Advancing Career Excellence in STEM (ACES) for the Filipino Youth program is a capacity building program that aims to engage and empower STEM students with FREE access to various STEM-related skills development training and placement opportunities that are critical for their future STEM careers. There are specific initiatives designed STEM educators, institutions, and industry partners to support the education and career potential of STEM students.

This program is implemented by Telstra Foundation Philippines (TFP) and Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST).