IC (Chip) Design in the Philippines Gets Full Support
written by Cesar Quiason, ARCDI Executive Director
Education in Microelectronics, particularly in IC (Chip) Design has been the topic of discussion (and even debate) for many years. UP Diliman has been the lead institution trying to forge a national thrust in this area of specialization through consortium efforts from other universities in the Philippines. However, the issue of funding and real "industry" support have affected various perceptions on how serious we really are and have impeded potential fast track efforts to drive student growth primarily, not to mention though that there have been substantial EE graduates with this field of specialization over the last few years. With the recent support commitment from lead Gov't institutions like BOI, DTI and DOST/PCASTRD, this Chip Design effort will be getting a much needed "Shot in the ARM" especially now that the effort will be formally captured as one of the banner projects under the Commission on Science and Technology and Engineering(COMSTE) Program.
ARCDI has been tasked to play a key role and help facilitate program and focus. The first ever coordination meeting took place in ARCDI last July 10, 2008 with ALL key stakeholders in attendance in a single meeting venue. We appreciate and thank SYNOPSYS for coming in at a critical time to offer consultancy and product support and services.
